Question

Discuss the powers and functions of Indian Rajya Sabha.

Write a short note of the following:

Special powers of Rajya Sabha

What are the two special powers enjoyed exclusively by the Rajya Sabha?

What are the special powers enjoyed by the upper house of India?

What are the powers enjoyed by Rajya Sabha.

Answer 1

Following are the powers and functions of the Indian Rajya Sabha.

1. Legislative Powers: It has equal power to make legislation on the Union and Concurrent Lists as the Lok Sabha; measures can be introduced in either House, with the exception of Money measures.
2. Financial Powers: Limited to discussing and proposing changes to Money Bills, which can only originate in the Lok Sabha; the Rajya Sabha must return them within 14 days without the ability to make changes.
3. Executive Powers: Members can criticize and discuss how the government operates, but they cannot remove it through a no-confidence motion, which is the Lok Sabha’s authority.
4. Constitution Amending Powers: The Rajya Sabha has equal ability with the Lok Sabha to change the Constitution, which requires a two-thirds majority to pass.
5. Electoral Powers: It participates in the election of India’s President and Vice-President, as well as other members of Parliament and state legislatures.
6. Judicial Powers: It participates in impeachment proceedings against the President, the removal of Supreme Court and High Court judges, and certain other constitutional powers.
7. Three Special Powers of the Rajya Sabha:
   1. The Power to declare a subject of State List as a subject of National Importance (Article 249): Rajya Sabha can pass a resolution by a two-thirds majority to allow Parliament to make laws on a State List subject if it is considered important for the nation. This power lasts for one year and can be renewed.
   2. Power in respect of Creation or Abolition of an All India Service (Article 312): Rajya Sabha can authorize the creation or disbanding of an All India Service by passing a resolution with a two-thirds majority, if it’s in the national interest.
   3. Power of the Rajya Sabha to approve an Emergency Declaration when the Lok Sabha stands dissolved: If the Lok Sabha is dissolved, only the Rajya Sabha can approve an emergency declared by the President. For this, the President may call a special session of the Rajya Sabha.