Discuss the powers and functions of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.

016 Oct 2024

Nikhil Kumar2 followers

The Lok Sabha (House of the People) and Rajya Sabha (Council of States) are the two Houses of the Parliament of India. They have distinct powers and functions that contribute to the legislative process in the country. The Lok Sabha, being the directly elected house, has more significant powers in certain areas, while the Rajya Sabha, as a house of states, plays a crucial role in revising and improving legislation.

1. Powers of the Lok Sabha

The Lok Sabha holds primary legislative powers, especially concerning financial matters and laws impacting the general public. It can initiate and pass bills on various issues, except for Money Bills, which can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha.

Sub-topics under this:

Initiation of Bills: The Lok Sabha plays a key role in introducing bills on a wide range of topics.
Power over Money Bills: Money Bills related to government expenditure, taxation, and financial matters can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha.
Passing of Bills: The Lok Sabha’s majority determines whether a bill will pass or not. Bills require the approval of both houses to become law.
Confidence in the Government: The Lok Sabha’s role includes approving the government’s policies and holding it accountable through motions of confidence and no-confidence.

2. Powers of the Rajya Sabha

The Rajya Sabha acts as a revising chamber, providing a forum for detailed scrutiny of bills passed by the Lok Sabha. It can suggest amendments to bills, but the Lok Sabha has the final say. The Rajya Sabha is also a forum for discussions on matters related to national interest and policy-making.

Sub-topics under this:

Review and Amendments: Rajya Sabha’s power lies in scrutinizing and amending the bills passed by the Lok Sabha.
Non-Money Bills: While the Lok Sabha handles Money Bills, the Rajya Sabha deals with other types of bills, including non-financial matters.
National Policy Discussions: Rajya Sabha provides a platform for discussions on policies affecting states and regions.
Control over Appointments: Rajya Sabha has a role in approving key constitutional appointments made by the President of India.

3. Joint Functions of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha

Despite their distinct roles, the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha collaborate to enact laws and ensure the smooth functioning of the Indian Parliament. Both houses are involved in important legislative procedures and share the responsibility of ensuring the government’s accountability.

Sub-topics under this:

Passing of Bills: Both houses work together to pass bills after debates and scrutiny. In case of disagreements, a joint session may be called.
Committees: Both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha have their own committees for specialized functions such as law-making, defense, and finance.
Concurrence on Constitutional Amendments: Both houses need to approve amendments to the Constitution with a special majority.
Oversight of Executive: Both houses ensure the government is held accountable through questions, debates, and motions.

Key Questions for Revision

What are the primary powers of the Lok Sabha?
The Lok Sabha has the power to initiate and pass bills, especially Money Bills, and has a key role in determining the confidence of the government.
What is the role of the Rajya Sabha in law-making?
The Rajya Sabha reviews, amends, and revises the bills passed by the Lok Sabha and ensures regional representation in the legislative process.
How do both Houses work together in passing a bill?
Both Houses must agree on a bill before it becomes law. In case of disagreements, a joint session may be convened.
What is the significance of the Rajya Sabha?
The Rajya Sabha acts as a revising chamber and ensures that the voice of the states and regions is heard in the legislative process.

The powers and functions of both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha are crucial to the functioning of the Indian democracy. While the Lok Sabha holds more immediate power in certain areas, the Rajya Sabha’s role in scrutinizing, reviewing, and advising is equally important. Together, they ensure that the legislative process remains balanced, fair, and efficient.