The Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, who is also the Vice President of India, holds significant powers and functions to ensure the effective functioning of the upper house of Parliament. The powers and functions of the Chairman are outlined in the Constitution of India and the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Rajya Sabha.
Presiding Over Sessions:
The Chairman presides over the sessions of the Rajya Sabha. As the presiding officer, the Chairman is responsible for maintaining order, conducting debates, and interpreting and enforcing the rules of parliamentary procedure.
Casting Vote:
The Chairman has a casting vote in case of a tie on any matter being voted upon in the Rajya Sabha. This casting vote is exercised in addition to the Chairman’s original vote.
Decision on Points of Order:
The Chairman has the authority to decide on points of order raised by members during debates. The Chairman’s rulings on parliamentary procedures are considered final, subject to the house’s discretion.
Representation of the Rajya Sabha:
The Chairman represents the Rajya Sabha in its relations with the President of India, the Lok Sabha, and other authorities, both within and outside India.
Constitutional Duties:
The Chairman performs certain constitutional duties, such as addressing joint sittings of both houses, communicating messages from the President to the Rajya Sabha, and certifying money bills.
Committee on Rules:
The Chairman is the ex-officio chairman of the Committee on Rules. This committee deals with matters related to the rules of procedure and conduct of business in the Rajya Sabha.
Committee on Privileges:
The Chairman presides over the Committee of Privileges, which examines matters related to the privileges of members and breaches thereof.
Appointment of Deputy Chairman:
The Chairman has the authority to appoint a Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. The Deputy Chairman presides over the Rajya Sabha in the absence of the Chairman.
Conducting Question Hour:
During the Question Hour, the Chairman oversees the proceedings where members can ask questions to ministers, seeking information on various aspects of governance.
Certification of Bills:
The Chairman certifies bills, including money bills, passed by the Rajya Sabha. The certification is essential for the bills to proceed further in the legislative process.
Addressing Joint Sessions:
The Chairman addresses joint sessions of both houses, especially during the President’s address to Parliament and during special occasions.
Interaction with Members:
The Chairman interacts with members of the Rajya Sabha, addresses their concerns, and ensures that parliamentary norms are followed.
Imposing Order:
The Chairman has the authority to maintain order in the house, adjourn sittings if necessary, and take disciplinary actions if members violate parliamentary norms.
Independence and Impartiality:
The Chairman is expected to maintain impartiality and act in a non-partisan manner. While elected from among the members of a political party, the Chairman is required to sever ties with their party upon assuming the office.
Committee Participation:
While not actively participating in debates, the Chairman may express views on constitutional matters and matters of public interest. The Chairman, being the Vice President, is a constitutional authority and holds a position of significance in the country.
Conclusion:
The powers and functions of the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha are crucial for the orderly functioning of the upper house of Parliament. The Chairman’s role encompasses presiding over sessions, ensuring adherence to parliamentary rules, representing the Rajya Sabha, and performing constitutional duties. Upholding impartiality and maintaining the dignity of the institution are essential aspects of the Chairman’s responsibilities.
