In this article you will learn about the Difference Between Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha.
Rajya Sabha vs. Lok Sabha
The Parliament of India consists of two houses i.e. the Rajya Sabha (Council of States) and the Lok Sabha (House of the People). Each house has several features, functions, and roles in the democratic governance of the country. Let us discuss some of the important differences between the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha, highlighting their structures, powers, and responsibilities.
Structure :
The Lok Sabha is the lower house of Parliament and is directly elected by the people of India through general elections. As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, the Lok Sabha has a maximum strength of 545 members, with 543 elected from states and union territories and two nominated members from the Anglo-Indian community (though the nomination of Anglo-Indian members has been discontinued since 2020).
The Rajya Sabha is the upper house and is not directly elected by the people. Its members are elected by the elected members of the State Legislative Assemblies and the Electoral College for Union Territories. The Rajya Sabha has a maximum strength of 250 members, of which 12 members are nominated by the President for their expertise in various fields.
Representation :
The Lok Sabha is considered as the primary chamber for the expression of the will of the people as it represents the people of India. The members of Lok Sabha are directly elected from constituencies spread across the country, and their numbers are determined by the population of each state.
The Rajya Sabha, on the other hand, represents the states and the union territories. Members of Rajya Sabha are elected by the elected representatives of the states and union territories, ensuring that the states have a say in the central legislative process. This makes the Rajya Sabha a forum for the representation of diverse regional interests.
Term Duration :
Members of the Lok Sabha are elected for a term of five years, unless the house is dissolved earlier. In contrast, the Rajya Sabha is a permanent body, and its members are elected for a term of six years. One-third of its members retire every two years, providing continuity and stability to the house.
Powers and Functions :
While both houses of Parliament participate in the legislative process, there are certain powers and functions that are unique to each house. The Lok Sabha has the primary role in the passage of money bills and exercises more influence in financial matters. The government is formed in the Lok Sabha, and it is accountable to this house.
The Rajya Sabha, being the council of states, plays a revising role in legislation. It can suggest amendments to non-money bills and can delay legislation, but it cannot ultimately prevent the passage of such bills. The Rajya Sabha also plays a crucial role in the impeachment of the President, removal of judges, and approval of certain presidential nominations.
Importance in Decision-Making :
In the formation of the government, the Lok Sabha is of paramount importance. The party or coalition with a majority in the Lok Sabha forms the government, and its leader becomes the Prime Minister.
While the Rajya Sabha has significant powers, it does not have the same decisive role in the formation of the government. However, it is vital in providing a platform for the representation of diverse regional interests and expertise.
Conclusion
Each of the two houses of the Indian Parliament—the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha—has a distinct role, structure, and set of responsibilities. While the Rajya Sabha represents the states and acts as a forum for their collective interests, the Lok Sabha is the direct representative of the people and has the power to form the government. These two chambers work together to support India's strong parliamentary democracy.
This article on Difference Between Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha is contributed by Dipshikha Anand. If you like LawStudyPoint.com do follow us on our Twitter handle.