Comprehensive Study Guide on the Union Legislature: Composition, Powers, and Functions of the Rajya Sabha and Rajya Sabha and Parliament (copy)

Rajya Sabha

The Upper House or Council of States in India, a permanent body representing the federation of the States.

Maximum Strength of Rajya Sabha

The Rajya Sabha can have a maximum of 250 members.

Elected Members of Rajya Sabha

There are 238 members elected by the States and Union Territories.

Nominated Members of Rajya Sabha

There are 12 members nominated by the President of India.

Allocation of Seats

Seats in the Rajya Sabha are allocated based on population, not equally among States.

Aim of Nomination

To include distinguished persons with special knowledge or experience in literature, science, art, or social service.

Qualifications for Rajya Sabha Membership

Must be an Indian citizen, at least 30 years old, registered in electoral rolls, not insolvent, no office of profit, not a criminal, and of sound mind.

Disqualification of Membership for Rajya Sabha

Conditions for disqualification are similar to those for Lok Sabha membership.

Election Process for Rajya Sabha

Members are elected indirectly by the elected members of the State Legislative Assemblies.

Term of Membership in Rajya Sabha

Each member is elected for a period of 6 years.

Chairman of Rajya Sabha

The Vice-President of India serves as the ex-officio Chairman of Rajya Sabha.

Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha

Elected from among its own members, performs duties in the absence of the Chairman.

Legislative Competence of Parliament

Parliament has exclusive powers over the Union List and shares powers on the Concurrent List.

Ordinances

The President can issue ordinances when Parliament is not in session; they must be approved within 6 weeks.

Money Bills

Can only originate in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha has an advisory role in their approval.

Impeachment Process

Requires a resolution passed by a 2/3rd majority of the total membership of Parliament.

Electoral Functions of Parliament

Parliament elects the President and Vice-President of India.

Executive Accountability

The Council of Ministers is responsible to the Lok Sabha and continues in office only while enjoying confidence.

Exclusive Powers of Lok Sabha

Includes introducing Money Bills and motions of no-confidence.

Exclusive Powers of Rajya Sabha

May empower Parliament to legislate on State List subjects under certain conditions.

Impeachment Grounds for President

Violation of the Constitution or grave misconduct.

Control Over Existing State Boundaries

Parliament can alter boundaries or form new States from existing territories.