The Rajya Sabha, as one of the two houses of the Parliament of India, possesses several special powers and functions that distinguish it from the Lok Sabha. These powers contribute to the Rajya Sabha’s unique role in the Indian parliamentary system.
1. Representation of States and Union Territories:
A. Indirect Representation:
- Members of the Rajya Sabha are not directly elected by the public. Instead, they are elected by the elected members of the Legislative Assemblies of the States and Union territories. This ensures a form of indirect representation.
B. Federal Character:
- The Rajya Sabha represents the federal character of the Indian polity by providing an equal platform for all states and union territories, irrespective of their population size. This ensures that smaller states have a voice in the national legislature.
2. Stability and Continuity:
A. Continuous Body:
- Unlike the Lok Sabha, which is subject to dissolution and re-election, the Rajya Sabha is a continuous body. One-third of its members retire every two years, ensuring stability and the retention of experienced members.
B. Expertise and Experience:
- The continuity of the Rajya Sabha allows for the retention of experienced members, fostering a body with diverse expertise, experience, and knowledge.
3. Special Powers in Financial Matters:
A. Role in Money Bills:
- While money bills must be introduced and passed in the Lok Sabha, the Rajya Sabha has the power to discuss and suggest amendments. However, the Lok Sabha’s decision prevails in case of a disagreement.
B. Extended Consideration:
- The Rajya Sabha can discuss money bills for up to 14 days, allowing for thorough deliberation and scrutiny. Although it cannot prevent the passage of money bills, it plays a role in ensuring a comprehensive examination of financial matters.
4. Representation of Anglo-Indians:
A. Nomination of Anglo-Indians:
- The President of India has the authority to nominate two members from the Anglo-Indian community to the Rajya Sabha if it is felt that this community is not adequately represented. This provision ensures the representation of minority communities in the upper house.
5. Constitutional Amendment Powers:
A. Equal Role in Constitutional Amendments:
- Amendments to the Constitution require a special majority in both houses. The Rajya Sabha participates in the constitutional amendment process and has an equal role with the Lok Sabha.
B. Veto on Certain Amendments:
- Some amendments, especially those affecting the federal structure or representation of states in Parliament, require the approval of a majority of the states. In such cases, the Rajya Sabha can exercise a kind of veto power.
6. Role in Impeachment Proceedings:
A. Power to Impeach:
- The Rajya Sabha, along with the Lok Sabha, has the power to initiate the impeachment process against the President of India, the Vice President, judges of the Supreme Court, and judges of the High Courts.
7. Special Powers in Emergency Situations:
A. Emergency Powers:
- During the proclamation of a National Emergency, the Rajya Sabha plays a crucial role. It can extend its term beyond the normal five-year duration during an emergency period, allowing for legislative continuity.
Conclusion:
The special powers of the Rajya Sabha, encompassing its role in representing states, expertise, continuity, financial matters, constitutional amendments, and impeachment proceedings, contribute to its unique character within the Indian parliamentary framework. These powers are designed to ensure a balanced and comprehensive representation in the Indian Parliament, taking into account the federal structure and diverse needs of the nation.
