As of my last update in September 2021, the Rajya Sabha is the upper house of the Parliament of India, and it plays a crucial role in the country’s legislative process. It possesses several special powers and functions, which I will outline below:
1. **Representing States and Union Territories**: One of the primary functions of the Rajya Sabha is to represent the states and union territories of India. Unlike the Lok Sabha (the lower house), which represents the people of India directly, the Rajya Sabha represents the states and union territories, ensuring a federal character in the legislative process.
2. **Reviewing and Amending Legislation**: The Rajya Sabha plays a vital role in the legislative process by reviewing and debating bills passed by the Lok Sabha. It can suggest amendments, and if it passes the bill with amendments, it goes back to the Lok Sabha for approval. In case of a disagreement between the two houses, a joint session may be called to resolve the matter.
3. **Passage of Special Bills**: Certain types of bills, such as those related to the creation of All India Services, the inclusion or exclusion of a state or union territory in India, and changes to the boundaries of states, can only be introduced in the Rajya Sabha.
4. **Representatives of Knowledge and Expertise**: The Rajya Sabha is often considered a house of elders, experts, and experienced individuals. It provides a platform for distinguished personalities from various fields, such as arts, science, literature, social service, and more, to contribute their expertise to the legislative process.
5. **Stabilizing Influence**: The Rajya Sabha has a relatively stable composition compared to the Lok Sabha, as its members are not subject to dissolution after the end of their terms. This stability ensures continuity and consistency in the legislative process.
6. **Guardian of States’ Interests**: The Rajya Sabha acts as a guardian of states’ interests by preventing hasty or lopsided legislation that may adversely affect individual states. It provides a platform for states to raise their concerns and have them addressed at the national level.
7. **Impeachment Proceedings**: In case of impeachment of the President of India, the Rajya Sabha, along with the Lok Sabha, conducts the impeachment proceedings.
8. **Constitutional Amendments**: For certain types of constitutional amendments, a special majority is required, which includes the support of both houses of Parliament. The Rajya Sabha’s involvement is crucial in this process.
9. **Financial Bills**: The Rajya Sabha can suggest amendments to Money Bills (bills solely related to financial matters), but the Lok Sabha has the power to accept or reject these suggestions.
It’s important to note that my knowledge is up to September 2021, and there might have been changes or developments in the functions and powers of the Rajya Sabha since then. Always refer to the latest official sources for the most up-to-date information.
