Question

Evaluate the role played by the Rajya Sabha in the Indian democracy.

Answer 1

• Introduction to the Rajya Sabha
  • The Rajya Sabha, or the Council of States is the upper House of the Parliament of India.
  • The Rajya Sabha is an integral component of the bicameral Union Legislature and plays an important role in our country.
• Importance of the Rajya Sabha
  • Unlike the Lok Sabha, the Rajya Sabha is a permanent house and it cannot be dissolved. This ensures continuity and brings old and new ideas together.
  • It helps in deeper analysis and revaluation of laws passed by the Lok Sabha.
  • Rajya Sabha MPs are elected by the elected members of state legislative assemblies and some union territories and raise and represent their voice in the House.
  • It allows the representation of people from diverse fields like sports, arts, literature, and social sciences.
• Limitations of the Rajya Sabha
  • The Rajya Sabha enjoys very limited powers in terms of money bills.
  • Owing to its lower strength, its view may not prevail in case of a joint sitting of the Parliament.
  • The Rajya Sabha enjoys limited control over the Executive as it cannot pass a no-confidence motion against the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers.