“Rajya Sabha is not a secondary chamber, but a complementary one.” In light of this statement, evaluate the role and contemporary relevance of the Rajya Sabha in Indian polity. (250 words, 15 marks)
Article 79 establishes a bicameral Parliament consisting of the President, Lok Sabha, and Rajya Sabha. As the Upper House, Rajya Sabha plays a vital role in federal balance, scrutiny, and continuity.
Significance
- Federal Balance: Represents States and Union Territories, ensuring federal character. Example: Resolution under Article 249 to empower Parliament on state subjects.
- Expertise and Continuity: Being a permanent house, it retains experienced voices for sober deliberation. Example: Legal experts and economists contribute during crucial bill debates (e.g., GST Bill)
- Checks and Deliberation: Slows hasty legislation and facilitates deeper scrutiny. Example: Amendments suggested in the Forest Conservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023.
- All-India Services Creation: Has sole power to authorize new All India Services under Article 312. Example: Rajya Sabha enabled creation of Indian Forest Service.
- Platform for Non-Majoritarian Voices: Offers space to regional, minority, and intellectual perspectives. Example: Nominated members like Sudha Murthy enriched debates.
- Legislative Refinement: Reviews and suggests amendments, often leading to better laws. Example: Changes in Consumer Protection Bill post RS review.
- Guard Against Populism: Provides institutional stability against sudden electoral swings. Example: Stalled controversial bills for wider consultation (e.g., Farm Laws debate).
- Voice of the States: Raises issues of regional concern neglected by national politics. Example: North-Eastern MPs pressing infrastructure and autonomy concerns.
- National Interest Overlaps: Enables central legislation on state matters when needed. Example: Article 249 resolutions for counter-terror and economic matters.
- Forum for Intellectual Debate: Focuses more on issue-based discussion than party politics. Example: Debates on climate change, digital economy led by domain experts.
Concerns
- Ruling Party Dominance: Weakens the chamber’s reviewing role when the same party controls both houses. Example: Key bills passed with minimal Rajya Sabha debate since 2019
- Low Productivity: Disruptions and walkouts often reduce meaningful discussion. Example: Only 23% productivity in Winter Session 2023.
- Lack of Regional Assertiveness: Many members toe the party line, diluting federal voice. Example: Limited pushback on central schemes affecting state finances.
- Nominated Member Concerns: Critics argue the selection often reflects political patronage. Example: Appointment of actors/sports figures without legislative interest or expertise.
Rajya Sabha enriches India’s democracy through deliberation, federalism, and policy depth. Strengthening its autonomy ensures it remains a vital national institution, not just a procedural formality.
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