History & Civics
The Union Parliament is the supreme legislative body in the country. With reference to the Indian Parliament answer the following questions:
(i) The Rajya Sabha is called a Permanent House. Explain this statement.
(ii) Explain the composition of the Rajya Sabha.
(iii) Mention any two exclusive powers of the Lok Sabha and two powers exclusive to the Rajya Sabha.
Answer
(i) The Rajya Sabha is a permanent House as it cannot be dissolved like the Lok Sabha. Each member of the Rajya Sabha is elected for a period of six years. One-third of the total members of the House retire after every two years.
(ii) Composition of the Rajya Sabha — The maximum strength of the Rajya Sabha can be 250 members, out of which -
- 12 members are nominated by the President from among persons having special knowledge or practical experience in matters such as literature, science, art and social service.
- 238 members are elected by the States in the Union. Seats are allocated to the States and the Union Territories on the basis of their population.
(iii) Two exclusive powers of the Lok Sabha —
- Motions of No-confidence against the government can only be introduced and passed in the Lok Sabha. If passed by a majority vote, the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers resign collectively. The Rajya Sabha has no power over such a motion, and hence no real power over the executive.
- Money bills can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha, and upon being passed, are sent to the Rajya Sabha, where it can be deliberated on for up to 14 days.
Two exclusive powers of the Rajya Sabha —
- Though the Parliament cannot, in normal times, make laws on a states subject, the Constitution states that under Article 249, the Rajya Sabha may, by resolution adopted by two-thirds majority empower the Parliament should make laws with respect to a matter in the State List. The Lok Sabha has no authority to assert itself in such matters.
- The other special power enjoyed by the Rajya Sabha is that it may declare that the creation of new All-India Services be made in the national interest. There upon Parliament may create new services.
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