The Oath or Affirmation, salary, and allowances of members of the Rajya Sabha (Council of States) in India are governed by the Constitution of India, specific rules, and regulations.
Oath or Affirmation:
Members of the Rajya Sabha, before taking their seats, are required to make and subscribe to an oath or affirmation. The oath is specified in the Third Schedule of the Constitution of India. The oath of office for members of the Rajya Sabha is as follows:
“I, [name], do swear in the name of God/solemnly affirm that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of India as by law established, that I will uphold the sovereignty and integrity of India, and that I will faithfully discharge the duty upon which I am about to enter.”
Salary and Allowances:
Salary:
Members of the Rajya Sabha are entitled to receive a salary. The salary is determined by law and is subject to periodic revisions.Rs. 50000 per month.
Daily Allowance:
Members are entitled to a daily allowance for each day of residence on duty. This allowance is provided to cover expenses related to accommodation, meals, and other incidental expenses during the course of official duties.
Travel Allowance:
Members are entitled to travel allowances for journeys performed in connection with the duties of the Rajya Sabha. This includes allowances for travel to attend sessions, committee meetings, and other official functions.
Constituency Allowance:
Members are entitled to a constituency allowance to cover expenses related to the maintenance of an office in their constituency.
Office Expense Allowance:
Members are entitled to an office expense allowance to meet the expenses incurred in running an office for carrying out parliamentary duties.
Sumptuary Allowance:
Members receive a sumptuary allowance to cover the expenses of attending official functions.
Free Accommodation:
Members are provided with rent-free accommodation during sessions in hostels or hotels maintained by the government.
Concession in Rail Travel:
Members are entitled to certain concessions in rail travel for official purposes.
Pension and Other Facilities:
Pension:
Members of the Rajya Sabha are entitled to a pension after completion of their term or resignation. The pension scheme is subject to the rules and regulations in force.
Medical Facilities:
Members are entitled to medical facilities, including medical attendance and treatment, for themselves and their dependents.
Secretarial Assistance:
Members are entitled to secretarial assistance to help them in discharging their parliamentary duties.
Conclusion:
The Oath or Affirmation, salary, and allowances of members of the Rajya Sabha are designed to ensure that they can fulfill their parliamentary responsibilities without financial constraints. These provisions are specified in accordance with constitutional principles and are subject to periodic reviews and revisions. The aim is to enable members to discharge their duties effectively while maintaining transparency and accountability.
