Rajya Sabha, or Council of States, serves as Upper House of India’s Parliament. It acts as a stabilizing force, representing interests of States and Union Territories in federal structure. Unlike Lok Sabha, it is a permanent body and is not subject to dissolution.
Functions of Rajya Sabha is broadly categorized into legislative, financial, executive, and special powers.
1. Legislative Functions
Rajya Sabha plays a critical role in law-making process.
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Ordinary Bills: A bill can start in either House. For a bill to become law, it must be passed by both Houses. If there is a deadlock, a Joint Sitting (Article 108) can be convened by President.
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Review and Revision: It allowed for a second look at legislation passed by Lok Sabha to prevent ill-considered laws.
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Constitutional Amendments: Under Article 368, Rajya Sabha enjoys equal power with Lok Sabha regarding constitutional amendments. A deadlock here cannot be resolved by a joint sitting; both Houses must pass bill separately.
2. Financial Functions
Rajya Sabha has limited powers in financial matters compared to Lok Sabha:
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Money Bill (Article 110) cannot be introduced in Rajya Sabha. Once passed by Lok Sabha, it is sent to Rajya Sabha, which has only 14 days to return it with recommendations.
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Lok Sabha is not bound to accept these recommendations. If Rajya Sabha does not return bill within 14 days, it is deemed passed by both Houses.
3. Executive Functions
While Council of Ministers is responsible only to Lok Sabha (Article 75), Rajya Sabha exercises control over executive through:
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Members can ask questions and supplementary questions during Question Hour.
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It can use tools like Adjournment Motions, Calling Attention Motions, and Half-an-hour discussions to scrutinize government policies.
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Many Union Ministers, including Prime Ministers have been members of Rajya Sabha.
4. Exclusive Powers
| Article | Special Power |
| Article 249 | It can pass a resolution (by a 2/3rd majority) authorizing Parliament to make laws on a subject in State List in national interest. |
| Article 312 | It can authorize creation of one or more All-India Services (like IAS or IPS) common to Union and the States. |
| Vice President | Process for removal of Vice President (who is ex-officio Chairman) can only be initiated in Rajya Sabha. |
5. Electoral and Judicial Functions
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Members participate in election ofPresident andVice President of India.
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It has an equal say in impeachment of President and the removal of judges of Supreme Court and High Courts.
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If Lok Sabha is dissolved, Rajya Sabha has power to approve Proclamation of Emergency.
Conclusion
It ensures that diversity of India’s states is represented at center, provides a platform for experts (through 12 nominated members), and acts as a constitutional safety net when Lower House is not in session.