Nomination of the members of Rajya Sabha: Article 80 of the Indian Constitution governs the nomination of members to the Rajya Sabha, the Council of States in the Indian Parliament. The President of India selects twelve individuals for the Rajya Sabha, and they serve for six years. These members are chosen based on their achievements and contributions in the fields of arts, literature, sciences, and social services.
The President may designate up to 12 members who are essential in providing the Rajya Sabha with a range of perspectives and areas of expertise. The President has been given this right as per the Constitution of India’s Fourth Schedule (Articles 4(1) and 80(2)).
This article provides information about nominations of the members of the Rajya Sabha, the process of nomination, office terms, challenges, etc.
Table of Content
Nomination Categories of Rajya Sabha
Under Article 80 of the Constitution, the Council of States (Rajya Sabha) is composed of not more than 250 members, of whom 12 are nominated by the President of India from amongst persons who have –
- Science, Art, Literature, and Social Service: The President of India has the authority to propose those who have made notable advances in the arts, sciences, literature, and social services.
- Anglo-Indian Community: The Anglo-Indian community was initially allowed to nominate representatives under the Constitution. However, the 104th Amendment Act, 2019 eliminated this clause, meaning that the Rajya Sabha no longer comprises nominees from the Anglo-Indian community.
Process of Nomination of the Members of Rajya Sabha
The Rajya Sabha, the upper house of India’s Parliament, plays a crucial role in shaping legislation and policy decisions. Members of the Rajya Sabha can be elected, but a portion is also nominated. While the nomination process is intended to ensure the representation of diverse voices, it is not without challenges and criticisms.
- Recommendation by the Prime Minister: The Prime Minister proposes candidates for the Rajya Sabha at the start of the procedure. The nominee’s accomplishments and contributions to their disciplines are typically the basis for the recommendations.
- The President’s approval: Nominations to the Rajya Sabha may be made by the President of India, who does so on the Council of Ministers’ suggestion. In the course of his discretionary authority, the President makes the nominations.
- Notification: Following the President’s approval of the nominations, the nominated members of the Rajya Sabha take their seats, and an official notification is sent out.
Office Term of Nominated Members of the Rajya Sabha
Nominated members of the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of India’s Parliament, serve a term that aligns with the duration of the session during which they are nominated.
- Six-Year Term: Members who are nominated are in office for six years. Nominated members are not up for reelection, in contrast to elected members.
- Reappointment: Members who have been nominated may be appointed again for the following periods if their accomplishments and contributions are still valued.
Some Notable Members of the Rajya Sabha
Some of the notable members of rajya sabha who received nominations for the rajya sabha are as follows:
- Sachin Tendulkar: In 2012, the renowned cricket player Sachin Tendulkar received a nomination for the Rajya Sabha. He is considered by many to be among the best batsmen in cricket history.
- Raghuram Rajan: Renowned economist Raghuram Rajan was the Reserve Bank of India’s 23rd governor. In 2018, he received a nomination to the Rajya Sabha.
- Rekha: In 2012, the well-known Bollywood actress Rekha received a Rajya Sabha nomination. She has been active in a number of social causes in addition to her prosperous film career.
- Mary Kom: In 2016, Mary Kom, an experienced Indian boxer who won a bronze medal at the Olympics, received a Rajya Sabha nomination. She is thought to be among the best female boxers in history.
- Javed Akhtar: Renowned poet, screenwriter and lyricist Javed Akhtar received a Rajya Sabha nomination in 2010. He has significantly influenced Indian literature and film.
Challenges and Criticisms Faced by the Nomination Process
The nomination process faces challenges, as critics suggest it could be influenced by-
- Political Power: Opponents contend that political factors, as opposed to merit, have the potential to affect the nomination process. This could result in the nomination of people more on the basis of their political affiliations than their qualifications or experience.
- Absence of Direct Representation: Members of the Rajya Sabha are not directly elected by the public, as opposed to the Lok Sabha. Rather, the President appoints them or state legislatures nominate them. It is possible to argue that this absence of direct representation is unfair.
- Absence of Responsibility: Members who are nominated could not feel as obligated to the public as those who are elected directly. This lack of responsibility may undermine their commitment to resolving the public’s issues, which makes it a target for criticism.
- Overrepresentation in Some Categories: Critics claim that imbalances in the legislative body may result from nominations that give certain social or economic groups an excessive amount of representation in the Rajya Sabha.
- Governor’s Power: The role of governors in suggesting candidates for application can be difficult when it comes to nominated members representing states. There can be worries about this power being abused.
Conclusion – Nomination of the members of Rajya Sabha
In order for the Legislative Assembly of the Indian Parliament the President’s nomination of 12 members to the Rajya Sabha marks a crucial step in shaping the composition and character of India’s Upper House of Parliament. As these nominated individuals take their seats in the Rajya Sabha, the nation will keenly observe their contributions to legislative debates, regional representation, and the promotion of arts and culture. The diversity of expertise and backgrounds they bring to the parliamentary province holds the promise of enhancing the overall effectiveness of the Rajya Sabha in fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities.
People Also Read:
FAQs on Nomination of the members of Rajya Sabha
1. Is it possible for members to be nominated again for a second term?
It is possible for nominated members to be nominated again for a second term if the President determines that their ongoing contributions and experience will improve the Rajya Sabha’s ability to function.
2. Do the nominees represent any particular state or region?
Members of the Rajya Sabha who have been nominated do not represent any specific state or area. They participate in the legislative process as independent members, offering their knowledge and experience.
3. How long is the term of office for Rajya Sabha members who have been nominated?
The Rajya Sabha’s nominees are in office for a period of six years.
4. Are any special requirements for Rajya Sabha member nominations?
Although the Rajya Sabha’s members are chosen based on a variety of factors, most often their professional accomplishments and contributions to society, the Constitution does not provide any strict requirements for nominations.
5. Can members who have been nominated take part in the Rajya Sabha Chairman election?
Members of the Rajya Sabha who have been nominated have the right to vote in the election of Rajya Sabha Chairman alongside elected members.
6. Who can be nominated to the Rajya Sabha?
A nominee to the Rajya Sabha may be anyone with exceptional knowledge or expertise in science, literature, art or social service, as well as having made notable contributions to their respective professions.