Roadmap for Answer Writing
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Introduction
- Define the Rajya Sabha and its historical perception as a ‘useless stepney tyre.’
- State the significance of its transformation into a vital supporting organ in Indian democracy.
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Factors Contributing to Transformation
- Checks and Balances:
- Explain the role of the Rajya Sabha in scrutinizing legislation and checking the executive’s powers.
- Fact: In 2015, the Rajya Sabha blocked the Land Acquisition Bill, which was criticized for being anti-farmer (Source: Lok Sabha Proceedings).
- Representation of States:
- Discuss how the Rajya Sabha ensures equal representation for states regardless of population size.
- Fact: The GST Bill, passed in 2016, required consideration of state interests, showcasing the Rajya Sabha’s balanced representation (Source: GST Legislative Documents).
- Special Powers:
- Highlight the unique powers of the Rajya Sabha, such as initiating the creation of All India Services.
- Fact: In 1951, the Rajya Sabha initiated the establishment of services like the Indian Administrative Service (Source: Government of India Archives).
- Review and Reconsideration:
- Describe the Rajya Sabha’s ability to review bills passed by the Lok Sabha.
- Fact: The Triple Talaq Bill was sent back by the Rajya Sabha for further scrutiny before being passed (Source: Parliamentary Debates).
- Role in Constitutional Amendments:
- Explain the Rajya Sabha’s influence on constitutional amendments.
- Fact: The 123rd Constitutional Amendment Bill, granting constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes, was passed by the Rajya Sabha in 2018 (Source: Constitutional Amendment Records).
- Deliberation and Debate:
- Discuss the Rajya Sabha’s role as a forum for informed debate and discussion.
- Fact: The debate on the Citizenship Amendment Act in 2019 allowed for extensive examination of its implications (Source: Parliamentary Proceedings).
- Stability and Continuity:
- Highlight the continuous nature of the Rajya Sabha’s functioning compared to the Lok Sabha.
- Fact: The staggered terms of Rajya Sabha members ensured legislative continuity during the COVID-19 crisis (Source: Government Reports).
- Checks and Balances:
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Conclusion
- Summarize the transformation of the Rajya Sabha and its importance in the legislative framework of India.
- Suggest areas for further improvement to enhance its effectiveness and relevance.
Relevant Facts
- Land Acquisition Bill Blocked (2015): The Rajya Sabha’s role in checking controversial legislation.
- GST Bill (2016): Highlighted the importance of state representation.
- All India Services Initiated (1951): Showcased the Rajya Sabha’s special powers.
- Triple Talaq Bill Review: Demonstrated the Rajya Sabha’s scrutiny role.
- 123rd Constitutional Amendment (2018): Emphasized the Rajya Sabha’s role in constitutional changes.
- Citizenship Amendment Act Debate (2019): Highlighted the platform for informed discussion.
- Continuity During COVID-19: Staggered terms ensured the Rajya Sabha’s legislative duties continued.
The Rajya Sabha, India’s Council of States, has undergone significant transformation over the past few decades, evolving from a largely symbolic body into a crucial legislative and oversight institution. This transformation is evident in several key factors and areas:
1. Enhanced Legislative Role:
2. Effective Oversight:
3. Representation of States:
4. Expertise and Debate:
5. Revisions and Amendments:
6. Increased Public Engagement:
Conclusion: The Rajya Sabha has evolved into a dynamic and influential component of India’s parliamentary system. Its enhanced role in legislation, oversight, and representation underscores its transformation into a vital supporting organ of governance.
Model Answer
Introduction
The Rajya Sabha, the upper house of India’s Parliament, has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent decades. Once dismissed as a ‘useless stepney tyre,’ it has evolved into an indispensable supporting organ, playing a vital role in the legislative process and safeguarding the principles of Indian democracy.
Factors Contributing to Transformation
The Rajya Sabha serves as an essential check on the actions and policies of the Lok Sabha and the executive. By scrutinizing bills and legislation, it ensures that government decisions are well-considered and that minority voices are not suppressed. For instance, in 2015, the Rajya Sabha blocked the controversial Land Acquisition Bill, which was criticized for being anti-farmer and lacking adequate compensation for land acquisition.
Members of the Rajya Sabha are elected by the State Legislative Assemblies, ensuring equal representation for each state regardless of population size. This balanced representation upholds federalism and protects state interests, as seen in the passage of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Bill in 2016, where the Rajya Sabha considered the interests of all states.
The Rajya Sabha has unique powers, such as initiating the creation of All India Services. This was evident in 1951 when it initiated the establishment of services like the Indian Administrative Service, which are crucial for governance.
The Rajya Sabha reviews and reconsiders bills passed by the Lok Sabha, allowing for thorough examination and preventing hasty decisions. For example, the Triple Talaq Bill was sent back by the Rajya Sabha for further scrutiny before being passed.
The Rajya Sabha plays a critical role in amending the Constitution, as its approval is necessary for any amendments. The 123rd Constitutional Amendment Bill, which granted constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes, was passed by the Rajya Sabha in 2018.
The Rajya Sabha provides a platform for informed debate on key policy issues, often featuring experts and experienced politicians. This was evident during the debate on the Citizenship Amendment Act in 2019, which allowed for a detailed examination of its implications.
Unlike the Lok Sabha, the Rajya Sabha is a permanent house, with one-third of its members retiring every two years. This structure ensures stability and continuity in legislative processes, as seen during the COVID-19 crisis when the Rajya Sabha continued its duties without disruption.
Conclusion
The Rajya Sabha has transformed into a crucial component of India’s parliamentary democracy, playing a vital role in upholding federalism and ensuring thorough legislative scrutiny. While it has made significant strides, there remains potential for further improvement, particularly in enhancing transparency and collaboration with the Lok Sabha.