The Indian Parliament is the cornerstone of the country’s democratic framework. As a bicameral legislature, it plays a pivotal role in shaping the laws, policies, and governance of India. This guide aims to provide a clear understanding of the structure of the Indian Parliament, perfect for beginners eager to learn about the legislative process in one of the world's largest democracies.
1. The Bicameral Structure of the Indian Parliament
The Indian Parliament consists of two houses:
- The Lok Sabha (House of the People)
- The Rajya Sabha (Council of States)
Each of these houses has distinct roles, powers, and structures.
Lok Sabha: The Lower House
The Lok Sabha, often referred to as the lower house, is the primary legislative body where elected representatives of the people deliberate and pass laws. Here's a closer look at its structure and function:
Composition: The Lok Sabha can have a maximum of 552 members. As of now, it comprises 543 elected members from various constituencies across India. The President of India can also nominate two members from the Anglo-Indian community if it is deemed underrepresented.
Tenure: Members of the Lok Sabha are elected for a term of five years. However, the house can be dissolved earlier by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister.
Leadership: The Lok Sabha is presided over by the Speaker, who is elected by the members of the house. The Speaker plays a crucial role in maintaining order during debates, deciding on points of order, and ensuring that the rules of procedure are followed.
Powers: The Lok Sabha is the primary body for the introduction and passage of financial bills (money bills). It also holds significant powers over the Rajya Sabha regarding financial matters.
Rajya Sabha: The Upper House
The Rajya Sabha, known as the upper house, represents the states and union territories of India. It serves as a permanent body that plays a critical role in reviewing and amending proposed legislation.
Composition: The Rajya Sabha has a maximum of 250 members. Currently, it has 245 members, 233 of whom are elected by the elected members of the State Legislative Assemblies, while 12 are nominated by the President for their expertise in fields such as literature, science, art, and social service.
Tenure: Unlike the Lok Sabha, the Rajya Sabha is a permanent body and is not subject to dissolution. However, one-third of its members retire every two years and are replaced by newly elected or nominated members. Each member serves a six-year term.
Leadership: The Vice President of India serves as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. There is also a Deputy Chairman, elected from among its members, who presides over sessions in the absence of the Chairman.
Powers: The Rajya Sabha has significant powers, especially concerning legislation affecting the states. It can delay legislation proposed by the Lok Sabha but cannot indefinitely block it. The Rajya Sabha's role is primarily advisory on most financial bills.
2. The Role of the President in the Indian Parliament
The President of India is an integral part of the Parliament, even though they are not a member of either house. The President’s role includes:
Summoning and Proroguing Sessions: The President summons Parliament to meet and can prorogue either house or dissolve the Lok Sabha.
Assenting to Bills: No bill becomes a law without the President's assent. The President can either give assent, withhold assent, or return a bill (except money bills) for reconsideration by Parliament.
Addressing Parliament: At the beginning of the first session after each general election and the first session each year, the President addresses a joint session of both houses.
3. The Legislative Process in the Indian Parliament
The legislative process involves several stages, starting from the introduction of a bill to its final enactment as a law.
Introduction of Bills: Bills can be introduced in either house, except for money bills, which must be introduced in the Lok Sabha. A bill can be a Government Bill (introduced by a minister) or a Private Member's Bill (introduced by a member who is not a minister).
Three Readings: A bill undergoes three readings in each house. The first reading involves its introduction, the second reading includes a detailed examination and possible amendments, and the third reading is when the final debate and vote occur.
Passage of Bills: After a bill is passed by one house, it moves to the other house. If both houses agree on the bill, it is sent to the President for assent. If there is a disagreement between the houses, a joint sitting can be called to resolve the issue.
4. Parliamentary Committees
To manage its extensive responsibilities, the Parliament has several committees. These committees play a crucial role in the detailed examination of bills, expenditure, and other parliamentary business. Major types of committees include:
Standing Committees: Permanent committees that cover specific areas such as finance, public accounts, and various ministries.
Ad Hoc Committees: Temporary committees formed for a specific purpose, such as investigating a particular issue or event.
Joint Committees: Committees that consist of members from both houses to address issues of national importance.
5. Conclusion
The Indian Parliament is a complex and dynamic institution that ensures the representation of the people, deliberation on key issues, and the passage of laws that govern the nation. Understanding its structure is essential for anyone interested in Indian governance and democracy. As a beginner, recognizing the roles of the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, and the President, along with the legislative process, provides a solid foundation for further exploration of India's parliamentary system.