Class 11 Polity Notes Chapter 5: Why do we Need two houses of Parliament?

In the intricate web of democratic governance, the institution of Parliament stands as a pillar of representation, accountability, and deliberation.

Central to this democratic framework is the concept of bicameralism, wherein the national legislature comprises two distinct houses: the Council of States (Rajya Sabha) and the House of the People (Lok Sabha). Let’s delve into why the presence of two houses is deemed indispensable for effective governance.

Why do we Need two houses of Parliament?

The Significance of Bicameralism

In democratic countries, the term “Parliament” denotes the national legislature, while state legislatures are referred to as State legislatures. Bicameral legislatures, characterized by two houses, such as the Indian Parliament, play a crucial role in governance. However, only six states in India have opted for a bicameral legislature, showcasing a diversity of legislative structures across the nation.

Rationale Behind Bicameralism

Bicameral legislatures are prevalent in countries marked by size and diversity. They ensure representation for various societal segments and geographical regions. Additionally, they facilitate a system of checks and balances, as every decision made by one house undergoes scrutiny and reconsideration by the other.

Composition and Role of Rajya Sabha

The Rajya Sabha, representing the States of India, constitutes an indirectly elected body. Its members are elected by the members of State Legislative Assemblies, ensuring regional representation. Unlike the symmetrical representation in the US Senate, the Rajya Sabha’s composition is based on the population of the States, preventing discrepancies in representation.

Membership and Tenure of Rajya Sabha

Members of the Rajya Sabha serve a six-year term and can be re-elected. However, their terms are staggered so that one-third of the members retire every two years, maintaining continuity in the functioning of the house. Additionally, the President nominates twelve members from various fields, enhancing diversity and expertise.

Role and Function of Lok Sabha

The Lok Sabha, directly elected by the people, comprises representatives from territorial constituencies. With 543 constituencies, each representing roughly equal populations, the Lok Sabha ensures democratic representation. It operates on a five-year term, although it can be dissolved earlier under certain circumstances, as discussed in the chapter on the executive.

Ensuring Representation: Addressing Diversity and Regional Disparities

Bicameralism provides a platform for comprehensive representation, accommodating the diverse social, cultural, and geographical facets of a nation.

In countries like India, characterized by vast size and significant diversity, two houses of parliament enable equitable representation for all sections of society and ensure that every region has a voice in the legislative process. This principle of symmetrical representation safeguards against marginalization and fosters inclusivity in governance.

Facilitating Deliberation: A Double Check on Legislative Decisions

One of the distinct advantages of bicameralism is its capacity to subject legislative decisions to thorough scrutiny and deliberation. Every bill and policy undergoes a meticulous review process, as it is discussed and debated in both houses of parliament.

This ensures a double check on legislative matters, preventing hasty decision-making and promoting comprehensive evaluation of proposed measures.

The Rajya Sabha: Representing the States and Upholding Democratic Values

The Rajya Sabha, representing the states of India, embodies the principle of indirect election, wherein members are elected by the state legislative assemblies. Unlike the symmetrical representation seen in the United States Senate, the Rajya Sabha adopts a proportional representation model, ensuring that states with larger populations have a greater number of representatives.

Additionally, the Rajya Sabha’s permanent nature, with staggered terms and nominated members, ensures continuity in governance and enables swift action during times of urgency.

The Lok Sabha: Directly Elected Representatives of the People

In contrast to the Rajya Sabha, the Lok Sabha comprises directly elected representatives chosen through universal adult suffrage. Territorial constituencies, delineated based on population demographics, ensure equitable representation and equal voting rights for all citizens.

The Lok Sabha serves as the primary legislative body, with members elected for a maximum term of five years, subject to dissolution in specific circumstances.

Conclusion

In essence, the presence of two houses of parliament encapsulates the essence of democratic governance, providing a platform for representation, deliberation, and accountability.

While each house serves distinct functions and embodies unique principles of representation, together, they form the cornerstone of effective governance, upholding the democratic ideals of inclusivity, transparency, and responsiveness to the will of the people.

Why do we Need two houses of Parliament?- FAQs

Why does India have two houses of Parliament?

India’s bicameral legislature, comprising the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha, is designed to ensure comprehensive representation, address regional disparities, and facilitate thorough deliberation on legislative matters. This system upholds democratic principles by providing a platform for diverse voices and robust scrutiny of proposed laws and policies.

How are members of the Rajya Sabha elected?

Members of the Rajya Sabha, representing the states of India, are elected indirectly by members of the respective state legislative assemblies. This ensures that states are adequately represented in the national legislature, with proportional representation based on population demographics.

What is the significance of staggered terms in the Rajya Sabha?

The Rajya Sabha operates on a rotational basis, with one-third of its members completing their terms every two years. This system ensures continuity in governance and allows for the smooth functioning of the legislature, even during times of political transition or uncertainty.

How are members of the Lok Sabha elected?

Members of the Lok Sabha, the lower house of Parliament, are directly elected by the people through universal adult suffrage. Territorial constituencies, divided based on population demographics, ensure equitable representation and equal voting rights for all citizens.

What role does bicameralism play in India’s democratic governance?

Bicameralism in India’s Parliament serves as a cornerstone of democratic governance, providing a platform for representation, deliberation, and accountability. Through the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha, diverse voices are heard, legislative decisions are thoroughly scrutinized, and the principles of democracy are upheld.