The term MLA stands for a Member of the Legislative Assembly. He/She is elected through a general election and represents a particular constituency. It is not necessary for one to be a member of a political party to become an MLA. He/she can contest the election as an independent candidate also. In some cases, he/ she is sponsored by a political party. But one thing is necessary that he/she must be a citizen of India and fulfill the requisite qualifications for the post.