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Last updated on April 16, 2024 by ClearIAS Team

What is the composition of the Lok sabha? What are the qualifications required to get membership in Lok Sabha? How are members elected into the Loksabha? What is the role of Loksabha in the Bicameral parliament system of India? Read further to know more.

The Lok Sabha, often known as the House of the People or the Popular Chamber, is the lower house of India’s bicameral Parliament.

On the basis of universal adult suffrage, MPs are chosen by direct election to the Lok Sabha. MPs, or members of parliament, are the terms used to describe Lok Sabha members.

These representatives are chosen from different states and union territories. Every five years , elections are held for Lok Sabha seats. After the first General Elections were held from 25 October 1951 to 21 February 1952, the Lok Sabha was legally formed for the first time on 17 April 1952.

Also read: Political Parties in India

Table of Contents

What Are the Provisions Regarding Lok Sabha Composition?

The Lok Sabha’s composition is covered in Article 81 . There can be no more than 530 members as state representatives. The Union Territories may send no more than 20 representatives.

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If the President considers the Anglo-Indian Community is not sufficiently represented in the parliament, he or she may nominate no more than two members of the Anglo-Indian Community.As a result, the Lok Sabha’s total membership, 530 + 20 + 2, equals 552.

Representation of States

The representatives of states in the Lok Sabha are directly elected by the people from the territorial constituencies in the states.The election is based on the principle of universal adult franchise .

Every Indian citizen who is above 18 years of age and who is not disqualified under the provisions of the Constitution or any law is eligible to vote in such an election.

The voting age was reduced from 21 to 18 years by the 61st Constitutional Amendment Act, of 1988.

Representation of Union Territories

The Constitution has empowered the Parliament to prescribe the manner of choosing the representatives of the union territories in the Lok Sabha.

The Parliament has enacted the Union Territories ( Direct Election to the House of the People ) Act, 1965 , by which the members of Lok Sabha from the union territories are also chosen by direct election.

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Representation from Anglo Indian Community

Article 331 of the Constitution provides for the representation of the Anglo-Indian Community.

According to Article 331, the President may nominate up to two members of the Anglo-Indian community for the House of the People if he considers the community is not sufficiently represented there.

With the passage of the 104th Constitutional Amendment Act in 2019 , the reserved seats for Anglo-Indians in India’s State Legislatures and Parliament were eliminated.

Also read: VVPAT: Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail

Eligibility Criteria for Membership in Lok Sabha

The Constitution’s Article 84 outlines the requirements for membership in Parliament.

The following qualifications must be met in order to qualify for Lok Sabha membership:

• He must be an Indian citizen and swear or affirm before someone the Election Commission has authorised in this regard using the form outlined in the Third Schedule to the Constitution.
• He must be at least 25 years old and meet any additional requirements imposed in this regard by or according to any law passed by Parliament.

System of Election to Lok Sabha

The following criteria are used to elect members of the Lok Sabha:

Universal Adult Franchise (Article 326)

Every citizen who has reached the legal voting age of 18 (as defined by the 61st Amendment Act) is entitled to cast a ballot in Lok Sabha elections. But it’s crucial that his name is on the list of registered voters in his district.

Seats reserved for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes

Some constituencies are set aside for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. These are referred to as Reserved Constituencies . Only candidates belonging to the SCs or STs, as the case may be, are eligible to run for office in each reserved constituency.

To elect one SC or ST candidate as their representative, each voter in each of these constituencies utilizes their right to vote. The reservation is provided for Scheduled castes and scheduled tribes in the Loksabha based on population ratios .

Single-member territorial constituencies

The whole nation divides into a number of territorial constituencies equal to the number of Lok Sabha members to be elected. One MP is chosen from each constituency.

First Past The Post System

The people personally elect each and every Lok Sabha member. Any voter may cast a ballot to elect any candidate from his or her constituency of choice.

The candidate who receives the most votes out of all the candidates in a constituency is chosen to serve as the Lok Sabha representative for the people of that constituency.

Duration of Lok Sabha

The Lok Sabha is not a continuing chamber .

Its normal term is five years from the date of its first meeting after the general elections, after which it automatically dissolves.

However, the President is authorized to dissolve the Lok Sabha at any time even before the completion of five years and this cannot be challenged in a court of law.

Further, the term of the Lok Sabha can be extended during a period of national emergency be a law of Parliament for one year at a time for any length of time.

However, this extension cannot continue beyond a period of six months after the emergency has ceased to operate.

The Grounds for Disqualification for Lok Sabha Members

According to Article 102 of the Constitution, a person is ineligible to be elected to, and to serve as, a member of either House of Parliament

• If he holds any office of profit under the Government of India or the Government of any State, other than an office declared by Parliament by law not to disqualify its holder;
• If he is of unsound mind and stands so declared by a competent court;
• If he is an undischarged insolvent ;
• If he is not a citizen of India , or has voluntarily acquired the citizenship of a foreign State, or is under any acknowledgement of allegiance to a foreign State;
• If he is so disqualified by or under any law made by Parliament.

The Parliament has laid down the following additional disqualifications in the Representation of People Act (1951):

• He must not have been found guilty of certain election offenses or corrupt practices in the elections.
• He must not have been convicted for any offense resulting in imprisonment for two or more years. But, the detention of a person under a preventive detention law is not a disqualification.
• He must not have failed to lodge an account of his election expenses within the time.
• He must not have any interest in government contracts, works, or services.
• He must not be a director or managing agent nor hold an office of profit in a corporation in which the government has at least a 25 percent share.
• He must not have been dismissed from government service for corruption or disloyalty to the State.
• He must not have been convicted for promoting enmity between different groups or for the offense of bribery.
• He must not have been punished for preaching and practicing social crimes such as untouchability, dowry, and sati

On the question of whether a member is subject to any of the above disqualifications, the president’s decision is final.

However, he should obtain the opinion of the election commission and act accordingly.

Disqualification on the Ground of Defection

The Constitution also lays down that a person shall be disqualified from being a member of Parliament if he is so disqualified on the ground of defection under the provisions of the Tenth Schedule. A member incurs disqualification under the defection law :

• If he voluntarily gives up the membership of the political party on whose ticket he is elected to the House;
• If he votes or abstains from voting in the House contrary to any direction given by his political party;
• If any independently elected member joins any political party; and
• if any nominated member joins any political party after the expiry of six months.

The question of disqualification under the Tenth Schedule is decided by the  Speaker in the case of Lok Sabha ( and not by the president of India ). In 1992, the Supreme Court ruled that the decision of the Speaker in this regard is subject to judicial review .

Speaker of Lok Sabha

The Speaker serves as both the ceremonial and legal head of the Lok Sabha and serves as its chief spokesperson.

The Speaker was formerly known as the President when the institutions of the Speaker were established in India in 1921 in accordance with the terms of the Government of India Act of 1919 (Montague-Chelmsford Reforms).

The Speaker of the Central Legislative Assembly replaced the President of the Central Legislative Assembly under the 1935 Government of India Act. However, the 1935 Act’s federal component was never enacted, therefore the old terminology persisted until 1947

The Speaker and Deputy Speaker are both elected under Article 93 of the Indian Constitution.

The honor of being the first Speaker belonged to G.V. Mavalankar .

The Speaker serves as the Lok Sabha’s head, its representative, and the protector of the member’s rights and privileges as well as those of the entire body and its committees.

As the main representative of the House, he or she has the final say on all matters pertaining to the Parliament.

The Constitution of India, the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business of the Lok Sabha, and parliamentary conventions are the three sources from which the Speaker of the Lok Sabha gets his or her authority and responsibility.

Deputy Speaker

After the speaker, the house elects the Deputy Speaker on a day set by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha.

The Deputy Speaker has the same terms of office, reasons for removal, removal procedure, provisions for salary, and allowances as the Speaker.

Through a letter to the speaker, he or she resigns.

When the Speaker is not present, the Deputy Speaker serves as the House’s presiding officer and has all of the Speaker’s authority. When the speaker is present, the deputy speaker takes the place of a regular house member. He or she is directly accountable to the house rather than the speaker.

However, he/she immediately becomes the head of the committee if he/she is a member of a parliamentary committee.

 Pro Tem Speaker

Just before the first meeting of the new Lok Sabha, the speaker of the previous one resigns.

As a result, the President names a member— typically the senior member —to serve as Pro Tem Speaker for the first session.

The President administers the Speaker Pro Tem oath.

The Speaker Pro Tem administers oaths to the members of the house and facilitates the election of a new Speaker.

Panel of Chairpersons

According to Lok Sabha rules, the Speaker appoints a panel of not more than 10 chairpersons from among the members.

Any of them has the same authority as the Speaker when presiding over the House in the absence of the Speaker or the Deputy Speaker.

He or she serves in that capacity until a new panel of chairpersons is proposed.

Any other person chosen by the House serves as Speaker when a chairperson from the panel is also absent.

However, when the position of Speaker or Deputy Speaker is vacant, a member of the panel of chairpersons cannot preside over the House.

Powers and Functions of the Lok Sabha

The following are the powers and functions of Lok Sabha.

Legislative Powers

Ordinary bills can only become law after being approved by both Houses of Parliament.

Although ordinary bills can be introduced in either chamber of Parliament, about 90% of bills are introduced in the Lok Sabha.

If a law passed by the Lok Sabha is rejected by the Rajya Sabha and returned with or without changes, the Lok Sabha reconsiders the bill.

A deadlock occurs if the Lok Sabha approves it again but the Rajya Sabha is still unwilling to approve it. If this deadlock is not resolved after six months, the President calls a joint sitting of the two Houses in accordance with Article 108’s rules.

Executive Powers

The Council of Ministers is collectively responsible before the Lok Sabha in accordance with Article 75(3) . The majority leader in the Lok Sabha becomes Prime Minister. The Lok Sabha is home to the majority of the ministries.

As long as the majority in the Lok Sabha has confidence in them, the ministers remain in their positions.

In accordance with the mechanism outlined in Rule 198 of the norms of procedure and conduct of business of the Lok Sabha, the Lok Sabha has the power to remove the ministry from office by voting a vote of no-confidence against it.

As a result, the Lok Sabha has the power to make or break the ministry . The Lok Sabha continues to have direct authority over the Council of Ministers.

Ministers can be questioned by MPs about the administration’s policies and activities. They are free to critique their actions. The Indian Constitution’s Article 75 grants the right to ask inquiries.

They are capable of moving and adopting a variety of resolutions and motions (adjournment motion, call attention motion, censure motion, and no-confidence motion)

Financial Powers

The Lok Sabha has extensive budgetary authority. A money bill may only be introduced in the Lok Sabha in accordance with the guidelines provided by Article 109 . The money bill then moves on to the Rajya Sabha after being approved by it.

The Lok Sabha Speaker decides if a certain law qualifies as a money bill or not in the event of a disagreement. His choice is final; it cannot be contested in a court, the Lok Sabha, or even the Rajya Sabha.

As a result, we can assert that the Lok Sabha has ultimate authority over the state’s finances. No tax can be imposed, collected, altered, or eliminated without the consent of Loksabha.

Without the Lok Sabha’s approval, the government cannot carry out its fiscal policy.

Judicial Powers

Additionally, the Lok Sabha has some judicial duties. Either the Lok Sabha or the Rajya Sabha may initiate the impeachment procedures against the President referred to in Article 61 . Only when an impeachment resolution is approved by both Houses with a 2/3 majority of their members can the President be removed from office.

The Rajya Sabha’s allegations against India’s vice president are also the subject of an investigation by the Lok Sabha.

According to the provisions of Article 124 (4) , the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha may vote together to remove any judge of the Supreme Court or of a State High Court.

For the removal of some high-ranking state officials, such as the Attorney General, the Chief Election Commissioner, and the Comptroller and Auditor General of India, both Houses may pass a special address jointly and submit it to the President.

Any member or citizen found guilty of violating the House’s rules may also face punishment from the Lok Sabha.

Electoral Powers

A few electoral duties are also carried out by the Lok Sabha. The Lok Sabha’s elected members participate in the presidential election.

In accordance with Article 66 of the Indian Constitution, members of both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha vote to choose the vice president of India.

The members of Loksabha also choose the Speaker and Deputy Speaker from among themselves.

Some Other Lok Sabha Powers

The following duties are shared by the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha:

• Approval of the President’s ordinances [ Article 123 (2) ]
• A change in the state’s borders.  addition of new states, and renaming any state, Article (3)
• Changes the requirements for members of the State Legislatures and the Parliament as set forth in the RPA Act of 1951
• Modifying the members of Parliament’s pay and benefits.
• Creating a Joint Public Service Commission with at least two other states.
• Passing a resolution to dissolve or establish a state legislature’s upper chamber ( Article 169 )
• Approval of an emergency declaration( Article 352 and Article 356 )

In light of this, we can conclude that Lok Sabha plays a vital role in parliamentary proceedings. Despite the ups and downs of Indian politics, the Lok Sabha has remained a leader for political and social values and a melting pot of cultural diversity. Along with the Rajya Sabha, it serves as a flag bearer for the independent, socialist, secular, and democratic republic of India.

Article written by: Aryadevi E S

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The Lok Sabha is composed of representatives of people chosen by direct election on the basis of Universal Adult Suffrage. The Constitution of India allows for a maximum of 550 members in the House, with 530 members representing the States and 20 representing the Union Territories. At present, the Lok Sabha has 543 seats filled by elected representatives. The term of the Lok Sabha, unless dissolved, is five years from the date appointed for its first meeting. However, while a proclamation of emergency is in operation, this period may be extended by Parliament by law for a period not exceeding one year at a time and not extending in any case, beyond a period of six months after the proclamation has ceased to operate.

Disclaimer: The Member List and Member Profile published in this page is sourced from the https://sansad.in/ls (Lok Sabha Website). In case of any discrepancy kindly contact https://sansad.in/ls/contactUs .

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• Difference Lok Sabha Rajya Sabha

Differences between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha - Indian Polity Notes

Parliament of India comprises President, Lok Sabha (Lower House) and Rajya Sabha (Upper House.) Lok Sabha is called House of People while Rajya Sabha is called the Council of States. The names, ‘Lok Sabha’ &’ ‘Rajya Sabha’ were adopted in 1954 by the Indian Parliament. Article 79-122 in the Indian Constitution deals with the Indian Parliament. The two houses of parliament are different from each other in many aspects and hence this topic ‘ Difference between Lok Sabha & Rajya Sabha’ becomes important for IAS Exam and its three stages – Prelims, Mains and Interview.

Difference between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha – Indian Polity Notes Download PDF Here

This article will mention the differences between Lower House i.e. Lok Sabha and the upper house i.e. the Rajya Sabha. Understanding the conceptual difference between Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha will act as a yardstick for UPSC aspirants for UPSC Mains GS-II exam and also for the Political Science subject which is an optional paper in the civil services examination.

Difference between Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha – Indian Polity Notes:- Download PDF Here

What is the main difference between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha?

The major points of difference between Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha or the upper house and lower house of the Parliament are given in brief in the table below. This information is important from the UPSC CSE perspective:

Questions related to the differences between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha for UPSC

When an aspirant reads about the Indian Parliament for the first time, he/she may get a little confused between the two houses given their composition, tenure and functions. Below, we will answer all those questions related to the difference between Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha reading which aspirants will get clarity conceptually for the UPSC 2024  examination.

The set of questions relevant from UPSC exam are given below:

Who is more powerful between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha?

Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha along with the President together make up the Parliament. Both houses have been conferred with powers. However, there is a slight difference between the powers of both. Lok Sabha is more powerful than Rajya Sabha on specific matters which are given below:

• By not passing a motion of thanks on the President’s inaugural address
• By rejecting a money bill (To read on how a bill is passed in Indian Parliament , check the linked article.)
• By passing a censure motion or an adjournment motion
• By defeating the government on a vital issue
• By passing a cut motion
• Note : Rajya Sabha, however, can criticize the acts and policies of the government.
• Money Bill under Article 110 can only be introduced in Lok Sabha. (Aspirants can read more about Money Bill in the linked article.)
• Note : The powers with the passage of the bill, however, are the same
• Speaker of Lok Sabha decides which bill is Money Bill and the same power is not given to the chairman of Rajya Sabha
• In case of a joint sitting of both houses, Lok Sabha with the greater number always wins
• With respect to the union budget, Rajya Sabha can only discuss the budget and cannot vote on the demands for grants

How many members are there in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha?

The composition of both the houses is given below:

How are members elected in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha?

The principle of election for both houses is different. There are three kinds of representation in both the houses:

• Representation of States
• Representation of Union Territories
• Nominated Members

Furthermore, aspirants must also carefully review the  civil services syllabus  and exam pattern for a better understanding of the examination and accordingly chalk out the preparation strategy.

UPSC-Questions-related-to-difference-between-Rajya-Sabha-and-Lok-Sabha

UPSC Questions related to difference between Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha

What is the power of rajya sabha w.r.t. money bill.

Rajya Sabha cannot amend or reject the bill. It has to return the bill with or without amendments. It has no specific power concerning money bill. (To read more on Money Bill , check the linked article.)

Can Rajya Sabha dissolve similar to Lok Sabha and what is the effect of dissolution?

Rajya Sabha, being a permanent house, does not get dissolved. However, Lok Sabha on losing the confidence dissolves and various bills lapse. (Check the article Lapsing of Bills to know more about it.)

How many members are nominated in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha?

12 members are nominated in Rajya Sabha. 2 are nominated from the Anglo-Indian community in Lok Sabha.

Who chairs Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha?

Lok Sabha is chaired by the Speaker and Rajya Sabha is chaired by the Vice-President of India.

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7 functions of lok sabha – explained.

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I. Functions of Lok Sabha:

The powers and functions of the Lok Sabha can be broadly classified under the following heads:

1. Legislative:

The Lok Sabha can pass bills concerning all those subjects which have been included in the Union List and the Concurrent List. It can pass bills regarding state subjects also in emergencies or if Rajya Sabha by a resolution passed by majority of its total members and 2/3 of its members present and voting declared a particular -state subject of national importance. However, such a bill can be valid for a year only.

A non-money Bill can be initiated in any of the two Houses. In case, the Houses cannot come to an agreement, the President may summon a joint session of both the Houses of Parliament. If the Bill is passed by the majority of the total members of the Houses concerned in a joint session, it is deemed to have been passed by both the Houses of Parliament. Since the membership of Lok Sabha is almost double to that of the Rajya Sabha, the will of the former is likely to prevail. Thus supremacy of Lok Sabha over Rajya Sabha in ordinary or important non- money bills is self evident.

2. Financial:

The Lok Sabha’s control over purse is an undisputed fact. A money bill must be initiated in the Lok Sabha. When passed by the Lok Sabha, it is to be transmitted to the Rajya Sabha for its recommendations. The Constitution, however, requires the Rajya Sabha to return it to the Lok Sabha with its recommendations within 14 days from the date of receipt of the bill.

If the Lok Sabha accepts these recommendations, the bill is deemed to have been passed by both the Houses of the Parliament. If the amendments made by the Rajya Sabha are not acceptable to the Lok Sabha the bill is deemed to have been passed by both the Houses’ in the original form. If a bill is passed by the Lok Sabha, and while sent to the Rajya Sabha, is not returned within 14 days it is deemed to have been passed by both the Houses of the Parliament, after the expiry of the stipulated period. Evidently, the Rajya Sabha possesses power of delaying a money bill only for 14 days.

On the other hand, House of Lords—the upper House in U.K. can delay the money bill for a month. Besides, the Lok Sabha is equipped with exclusive power of authorizing the expenditure. The demands for grants are submitted to the Lok Sabha alone.

3. Control over the Executive:

In a Parliamentary form of government, the most important function of a lower House is “Control over the Executive”. The lower House of our Parliament is not an exception. According to Article 75(3), the Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha. This means, the ministry must tender resignation if a vote of non-confidence is passed against it by the Lok Sabha. There are other effective methods also adopted by our lower House, like that of other lower Houses in Parliamentary form of governments, to control the executive.

The Ministers in charge of various departments can be interrogated and censured by the members of the House. The bill introduced by the government may be rejected by the House. The adjournment motion may be moved to criticize the government or raise discussions on matters of vital importance for short duration. A resolution moving a token cut in the budget or the grant to a particular ministry may be passed, reflecting lack of confidence in the ministry by the majority in the House.

The opposition in the Lok Sabha can haul up the government by asking questions and supplementary questions. Opposition to the governmental policies reach climax after the address of the President to the Parliament. The President’s address is the embodiment of governmental policy in the ensuing year; hence all its aspects are thrashed out by the opposition in the Lok Sabha.

4. Electoral Function:

Article 54 of the Constitution vests electoral functions with the Parliament. The elected members of both the Houses of Parliament constitute a part of the Electoral College for the election of President. Article 66 provides for the election of the Vice-President by the members of both the Houses of Parliament at a joint session. The Lok Sabha elects its speaker as well.

5. Discussions on Questions of Public Importance:

The Parliament possesses unlimited power of discussing and debating questions. This is done usually on the occasion of the inaugural and annual address by the President of India. It is empowered to review and criticize the work of the different departments of state during the discussion on the estimates of expenditure, the appropriation and revenue bills. Through such criticism and review, the members of House can get their grievances redressed.

6. Miscellaneous Powers:

(i) The Lok Sabha together with the Rajya Sabha possesses the power of amending the Constitution.

(ii) The Lok Sabha along with the Rajya Sabha, has the power to move for the removal of judges of the Supreme Court and the High Court’s on the ground of proved misbehavior and incapacity by an address supported by a 2/3rd majority of the members present and voting and also majority of their total membership in each House.

(iii) The Lok Sabha participates in the impeachment of the President of India. Either of the two Houses of the Parliament frames the charges and the other House sits as a Court of trial.

(iv) The resolution passed by the Rajya Sabha for the removal of the Vice- President is subject to ratification by the Lok Sabha as well.

(v) Proclamation of emergency issued by the President Needs approval of Lok Sabha along with Rajya Sabha for its continuance.

(vi) The Lok Sabha, in collaboration with the Rajya Sabha, must devise the system of effectively controlling the official bureaucracy by jealously maintaining its purity and the high standard of its ability and by making it more responsible to the people at large.

(vii) The House serves as a public forum. “The potential virtue of a public forum is two-fold. First, it can benefit the spectators who may learn by watching. Second, it can improve the participants who may have at best to find reasons with which to clothe the interests they represent.” The House, in fact, is the mirror and educator of popular feeling. The impact of Parliament is more than political. The habit of orderly discussion, once established, helps to set the tone of public life in general.

7. Punitive Action against MP by the House:

(viii) It can take punitive action against the outsiders as well as its members who commit breach of its privileges. On December 19, 1978, it expelled Mrs. Indira Gandhi from the primary membership of the House for breach of the privileges.

Cash for Query scam December 2005 Expulsion of MPs from the House:

(ix) In the case of eleven legislators involved in last year’s ‘Cash for Query scam’ the expulsion of such MPs was described justified by the Government to restore public confidence in the Political system. Eleven MPs including one from Rajya Sabha were expelled from their respective Houses in December 2005 after a sting operation carried out by a private television channel. They were clearly exposed demanding or accepting money for raising questions in the House in the interest of concerned individual. However most of these MPs except one moved the Delhi High Court against expulsions in January 2006.

The one left out approached the Supreme Court. In February 2006 the Apex Court transferred to itself all petitions pending before the High Court to itself on the plea of the Attorney General. The Central Government on September 13, 2006 through its counsel asserted that “the Courts cannot interfere in the functioning of the Parliament.” Reference was made to the Apex Courts of earlier decision.

The House had exclusive jurisdiction over its internal proceedings. The Speaker of Lok Sabha—Somnath Chatterjee also had argued that the judiciary did not have jurisdiction to deal with expulsions of the MPs. In a written submission the Union Government said “Parliament has the inherent power to punish the erring members and the Apex Court had recognized this in JMM bribery case of 1998.”

The Government reminded the Supreme Court. “Expulsion assures public that those who have abused their office would not be tolerated and instills faith and confidence in representative legislatures.” Evidently the Government was not prepared to concede Parliaments defeat.

There is no express provision in the constitution as to whether the MPs can be expelled by the Parliament. The Apex Court in its decision on September 26, 2006 held that the Judicial Review cannot be applied for judging Parliaments’ Action regarding its privileges. In “Cash for Query” case the expelled MPs had approached the Supreme Court………….. Parliament cannot be attributed jurisdictional errors….The actions of the Parliament except when they are translated into law cannot be questioned in Court. It has now become an established fact that the Parliament alone can expel the members.

The apex court contended “The expulsions constitute self production exercise by Parliament.” They held “Proceeding of parliament which may be tainted on account of substantive or gross illegality or unconstitutional illegality are not protected from judicial scrutiny.” Evidently, the Apex Court in its decision on January 10, 2007 upheld the expulsion of the M.Ps. It confirms the speakers stand that Parliament has the right to act against the errant members.

Suspension from House:

(x) On December 20, 2005 the speaker asked five MPs shown in a T.V. channel having been involved in corruption in allotting work under MPLADS (Member Parliament Local Area Development Schemes) to stay away from the House pending enquiry. The Lok Sabha MPs involved in the scandal were—1 from Congress, 3 from BJP and 1 from SP. The Chairman Rajya Sabha also referred to two such members in the scam expose. This was termed as ‘Operation Chakravyuh’.

After a thorough probe of the case all the four MPs were suspended from the House on March 22, 2006. One of the MPs involved had already been expelled from House in ‘Cash for Queries’ scandal.

(xi) Besides, Lok Sabha shares with the Rajya Sabha the power of discussing reports submitted by autonomous official agencies like the U.P.S.C., and Comptroller and Auditor General of India, Finance Commission, Language Commission, Minority Commission and Scheduled Castes and Tribes Commission.

II. Conclusion:

It is quite evident from the foregoing account of the functions of the Lok Sabha that it controls legislation and the purse of the Nation. It makes and unmakes the Cabinets. Their power of granting supplies enables it to control the entire administration of the Union. As the direct representative body of the teeming millions, it can act as their spokesman and serve as custodian of their interests. “If the Parliament is the supreme organ of the State, the Lok Sabha is the supreme organ of its Parliament. In fact, for all practical purposes, it is the Parliament.”

Related Articles:

• Rajya Sabha Vis-A-Vis Lok Sabha
• Lok Sabha: Functions and Position of the Lok Sabha

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Houses of Parliament

Introduction

Various institutions are required to run a country. Parliament is one of the most important institutions in this regard without which a country can not function. It serves the most important function for a country that is lawmaking. All the parliamentarians meet in the sessions of the parliament to discuss various issues and to make and update the laws. Here, we are going to cover a topic of political science or civics to provide you with a basic idea about this organ of the country.

Here, we will learn about the parliament, its role and functions, what are the names of the two houses of parliament, an explanation of both houses of parliament, etc. along with the other related concepts and important information. Both houses of parliament namely Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha explained in a very crisp manner so it becomes easier for students to understand the topic. These notes will help you to increase your knowledge about the legislative structure of the country.

We have a parliamentary system of government in our country which means having a parliament for legislature purposes. It comprises two houses and the President. It is the law-making body of the country whose headquarters are in the capital city of the country. In the parliament, laws are made after great debate and discussions which after passing by the parliament are sent to the President for the final assent. After this assent, any bill becomes an act and is implemented in the whole country. The two houses of the parliament are discussed below.

Role of Parliament

It is one of the important organs of the government which performs legislative functions and it is the most important and supreme authority of making laws in the country. The role of parliament is discussed below:

They make new laws and modify or repeal the existing laws as per the requirements of the country.

They exercise their control over the executives and ask them questions about the implementation of the policies and programs of the government.

No public money can be used without its approval by the parliament.

This is the body of the highest authority in the country for debate and discussion on any matter. It issues a budget every year.

They have the authority to amend the constitution as well without changing and affecting the basic structure of the constitution of the country.

They have the authority to remove and impeach the judges, the President or the Vice President, and other officials, etc.

Our country follows a bicameral legislature which means the presence of two houses for legislative purposes. We have a bicameral legislature at the center but at the state level, both bicameral and unicameral structure of legislature is followed. Most of the States have unicameral structures whereas some states have a bicameral structure as well. Let's check out the two houses of the Parliament as the center level. The two houses of parliament are mentioned below:

Rajya Sabha

It is one of the two houses of India and is also known as the upper house of India. The term " Rajya Sabha '' is not mentioned in the Constitution of India because it is an Indian term. Our Constitution says it as the council of States because it represents the states and the Union territories of the country. It is also called the permanent house of the Parliament because it can not be dissolved, unlike the Lok Sabha. It's one-third members retire after every 2 years on a rotational basis. All members are elected for 6 years of the time period. It is mentioned before the Lok Sabha in the Constitution thus, termed as the upper house. 250 is the maximum strength of this house as per the Constitution of India from which 12 members are nominated by the President of India. A person should be of minimum 30 years of age or more to become a member of the house.

It is known as the House of People as mentioned in the Constitution of India. It is also considered as the lower house. The members are elected by the citizens of the country through elections. The political party which scores the maximum votes and seats wins the elections and becomes the ruling party for the tenure of 5 years. The maximum strength as per the Constitution can be 552. The speaker serves as the chairperson of this house which is generally chosen from the ruling party.

Which House is Stronger?

The Lok Sabha has more powers in the following matters:

The ordinary bill is passed by both the houses and then sent for assent to the President but if any deadlock arises between the two then the President can call a joint session. Due to the maximum strength of the lower house, the decision will come in the favor of the lower house. Thus, the voice of the people is ignored here if a deadlock happens because of Rajya Sabha. That's why only a few joint sessions have occurred in India.

The money bill is a kind of bill which can be introduced in the Lok Sabha only and the Rajya Sabha has to approve it and can delay up to 14 days only or can suggest changes that are not binding on the lower house.

Difference Between Lok and Rajya Sabha

We have learned about the parliament and its related topics. We learned what are the names of the two houses of parliament, what are the features of these two houses, the role of parliament and which house is stronger, etc. Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha explained in a very easy way in this article which will help you in the chapter of Class 9 Polity namely working of institutions. This article will help you to have a better understanding and basic knowledge of these two houses and will be beneficial for both Class 9 and other lower or upper-class students. You can find out notes of other subjects and their various topics on our website which will surely help you to understand better to get better results.

FAQs on Houses of Parliament

1. Write a Short Note on Lok Sabha.

Answer. It is known as the House of People as mentioned in the Constitution of India. It is also considered as the lower house. The members are elected by the citizens of the country through elections. The political party which scores the maximum votes and seats wins the elections and becomes the ruling party for the tenure of 5 years. The maximum strength as per the Constitution can be 552. The speaker serves as the chairperson of this house which is generally chosen from the ruling party.

2. Write a Short Note on the Powers of the Rajya Sabha.

Answer. It is one of the two houses of India and is also known as the upper house of India. The term " Rajya Sabha '' is not mentioned in the Constitution of India because it is an Indian term. Our Constitution says it is a council of States because it represents the states and the Union territories of the country. It is also called the permanent house of the Parliament because it can not be dissolved, unlike the Lok Sabha. it can create a deadlock on any matter of discussion in the Parliament. It plays a great role in the removal of judges or the President of India. The proposal to remove the vice president can only be put in the Rajya Sabha only. Besides these, it has many other powers as well.

• Key Differences

Know the Differences & Comparisons

Difference Between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha

These two houses of Parliament primarily differs in their powers and functions. The tenure of Lok Sabha is only for five years, afte which it dissolves, whereas the Rajya Sabha is a permanent house, but after every two years, one third of its members retire. To further comprehend the topics, take a glance of the article given below, which elaborates all the basic differences between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.

Content: Lok Sabha Vs Rajya Sabha

Comparison chart.

• Introduction

Introduction to Lok Sabha

The House of People known as Lok Sabha is the lower chamber of Parliament comprises of 552 members in which 530 members are representing States, 20 representing Union Territories and 2 representing the Anglo – Indian Community. Though it is the assembly that represents the people, the representatives of the States and Union Territories are chosen by the individuals who qualify the age of 18 years or above through direct elections while the Hon’ble President of India appoints two members of the Anglo-Indian Community.

The allocation of seats in the States is based on the proportion of their population. A number of seats are reserved for the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribes.

The Lok Sabha operates for 5 years unless it is dissolved earlier. However, the Parliament can extend such period at the time of any emergency. The first Lok Sabha was constituted in the year 1952 after the first General Election in the year 1951-1952. Recently, the 16th Lok Sabha is elected in May 2014 which is the latest one, having member strength of 545 people at present.

Introduction to Rajya Sabha

The Council of States commonly known as Rajya Sabha is the upper chamber of Parliament comprises of 250 Members in which 238 members are representing States and Union Territories, while the rest of 12 members are appointed by the Hon’ble President of India. The members of Rajya Sabha are chosen through the indirect method by the elected members of the Legislature of States and Union Territories. The twelve members who are nominated by the President are the ones who gave their contribution in the specific fields.

The allocation of seats in the Rajya Sabha is provided in the Fourth Schedule according to which the seat allocation is based on the proportion of the population.

The Rajya Sabha is a permanent assembly which is not a subject of dissolution. However, 33.33% of its members retires biennially i.e. after every second year which is replaced by the new members. The tenure of membership of a member is six years. The present strength of the members of Rajya  Sabha is 245.

Key Differences Between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha

The points given below are noteworthy so far as the difference between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha is concerned:

• Lok Sabha, as its name suggests, it is the assembly in which the people elect representatives. Rajya Sabha, as its name signifies, is is the body in which the representatives are chosen by the elected members of the Assemblies of States and Union Territories.
• Rajya Sabha is a permanent body while Lok Sabha dissolves after every five years.
• The speaker is the representative of Lok Sabha. On the other hand, the Vice-President of India is the representative of Rajya Sabha.
• The maximum members in the Lok Sabha are 552 while they are only 250 in case of Rajya Sabha
• For being a member in Lok Sabha, a person must attain a minimum age of 25 years, whereas in the case of Rajya Sabha this age is 30 years.
• The introduction of Money Bill is done exclusively in the Lok Sabha, which after the approval Lok Sabha, is sent to Rajya Sabha, for consideration.

Video: Lok Sabha Vs Rajya Sabha

The only limitation with the Lok Sabha is that it is a temporary body, which can be operated for five years from the date, it came into force. Although both the bodies constitute the Bicameral-Parliament of India, where the Higher Assembly is the Rajya Sabha, and the Lower Assembly is the Lok Sabha. Joint sittings of both the houses are held when there is a dispute regarding any legislation which is uncommon. However, the number of members of Rajya Sabha are half the members of the Lok Sabha. So the power of Lok Sabha is also twice the power of the Rajya Sabha.

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Civics — Chapter 4

Class 9 - total history & civics solutions, multiple choice questions.

People of India directly elect their representatives to the Lok Sabha and the

• Rajya Sabha
• State Legislative Council

State Legislative Assemblies

• Parliamentary Committees.

If a person stands for election as the President of India, he/she requires the votes of

P : Elected Members of both Houses of Parliament.

Q : Elected Members of the Legislative Assemblies of the States.

R : Elected Members of Legislative Councils.

S : Nominated Members of Rajya Sabha.

Which of the following refer to a group of people holding similar views or beliefs

Political Party

• Ruling Party

The election held upon dissolution of the Legislature before its full term (5 years) is:

• General elections
• Direct elections
• Indirect elections

Mid-term elections

Indirect Elections are held to elect members of

• Vidhan Parishad

Both (b) and (c)

Who appoints the Election Commissioners?

President of India

• Prime Minister of India
• Chief Justice of India
• Act of Parliament

What is the normal term of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Commissioners?

How is the difference of opinion amongst the Election Commissioners settled?

In favour of the majority

• The Supreme Court settles it
• The Chief Election Commissioner’s opinion is final
• The President intervenes and decides

The Election Commission conducts

• Parliamentary Elections
• State Legislative Elections
• Election of the Office of President

All of the above

Question 10

Every registered Political Party is allotted a symbol. Which of the following statements is correct about the allotment of a symbol to a Political registered party?

A registered Political Party is allotted a symbol from its list of 'reserved symbols'.

• A registered Political Party selects a symbol of its choice from the list of 'free symbols'.
• A registered Political Party selects a symbol of its choice from a list of 'reserved symbols'.
• A registered Political Party can take any symbol of its choice.

Question 11

Election symbols are allotted to Political parties by

• The President of India
• The Chief Election Commissioner

The Election Commission

• The Political party itself

Question 12

Constituency : Returning Officer :: .............. : Presiding Officers

• Polling booths
• Counting centres

Both (a) and (b)

• None of the above

Question 13

Which of the following helps the Election Commission to ensure free and fair elections?

• Code of Conduct
• Severe punishment for booth capturing
• Central Observers

Short Answer Questions

What is meant by the term election?

Election is a procedure whereby persons are chosen, by voting, to represent the voters for running the government.

Under which method of elections are the elections to Lok Sabha held? Name the system of election to the office of the President of India.

The Lok Sabha elections are held by Direct election method. People of India directly elect their representatives to the Lok Sabha.

The system of election to the office of the President of India is indirect Elections.

What is meant by a (a) by-election (b) mid-term election ?

(a) By-elections — When a seat held by any member of the Legislative Assembly in the Centre or State falls vacant on account of death or resignation of the member before completion of his/her term, to fill up this vacancy the election which is held is called By-Election.

(b) Mid-term election — This type of election is held when a State Legislative Assembly or the Lok Sabha is dissolved before the completion of its full term (5 years).

Who allots the symbols to political parties? What role do election symbols play in an election?

The Election Commission allots symbols to political parties.

The election symbols give identification to the political parties on ballot paper/electronic voting machine. It helps illiterate voters to identify the party they want to vote for.

Name two important powers and functions of the Election Commission.

Two important powers and functions of the Election Commission are:

• Preparation of Electoral Rolls and Photo Identity Cards.
• Registration and Recognition of Political Parties.

What is known as the Voters List? Who prepares the voters list?

The Commission identifies eligible voters in each constituency and prepares the list of all eligible voters. This is called voters list.

The Election Commission prepares the voters list.

Write a short note on the advisory function of the Election Commission.

The election commission advises the President or the Governors of the State in respect of electoral matters, disqualification of members, election disputes, petitions etc. The commission also advises judiciary in the matter of post election disqualification of sitting members of parliament and state legislature. The cases of persons found guilty of corrupt practices at elections which come before the supreme court and high courts are also referred to the commission for its opinion.

Structured Questions

With reference to Democracy and Elections, answer the following questions:

(a) Distinguish between two types of elections.

(b) What type of elections are direct and what type are indirect in a Parliamentary Democracy?

(c) How are the elections of the President and Vice-President of India held? Give reasons to support your answer.

(a) Below are the differences between the two types of elections:

(b) Election of Legislative Assemblies and Lok Sabha are direct and the election of State Legislative Councils, Rajya Sabha, the President of India and the Vice President are indirect in a Parliamentary Democracy.

(c) The President of India is elected indirectly by the members of an Electoral college consisting of the elected members of both the houses of Parliament and the elected members of the Legislative Assemblies of the States including National Capital Territory of Delhi and Union Territory of Pondicherry. The election takes place in accordance with the system of proportional representation by means of a single transferable vote. Like the President, the election of the Vice-President is also indirect. The Vice-President is elected by members of both Houses of Parliament. In this election, the State Legislatures do not take part.

With reference to types of elections, answer the following:

(a) What is known as General Elections?

(b) State two points of difference between a by-election and mid-term election.

(c) When were the last General Elections held in India? What do you understand by the term 'electorate'? What are the rights of electorate?

(a) The Elections held to elect the members of the Lok Sabha after expiry of the normal term of five years are called the General Elections.

(b) Two points of difference between a by-election and mid-term election are:

(c) The last General Elections were held in 2019 in India.

An electorate can be defined as all the people who are eligible to vote. Alternatively, a very large body of voters is called the electorate.

The Indian Constitution grants the right to vote to all Indian citizens of sound mind above the age of 18, irrespective of an individual’s caste, religion, social or economic status. Every voter is allowed one vote only. A voter can vote at the constituency where they have registered themselves.

With reference to terms of office and conditions of service of the Election Commission, answer the following questions:

(a) Who constitute the Election Commission? Who is the head of the Election Commission? Who appoints him?

(b) What is the term of the Election Commissioners? What happens in case there is a difference in opinion between the Election Commissioners?

(c) State any four functions of the Election Commission.

(a) The Election Commission consists of three members — a chief Election Commissioner and two other Election Commissioners.

The chief election commissioner is the head of the Election commission. He is appointed by the President of India

(b) The term of the Election Commissioners is six years. During this tenure if they attain the age of 65 years, they shall vacate office on the day of attaining this age.

In case there is a difference in opinion between the Election Commissioners, decision is taken in favour of the majority opinion.

(c) Following are the four functions of the Election Commission:

• Preparation of electoral rolls and photo identity cards.
• Registration and recognition of political parties.
• Fixing dates and conducting elections.
• Ensuring free and fair elections.

Thinking Skills

Suppose the Class Representative of your class is to be elected by means of single transferable vote through secret ballot. Write down the steps for election starting from filling the forms by those who want to stand for election till the final selection is made.

Following are the steps for election of Class Representative:

• Nomination of Candidates — Candidates will fill the nomination form.
• Election Campaign — It will continue after nomination till the date of polling.
• Polling — Students will vote for their favourite candidate.
• Counting — The votes in secret ballot are counted to decide the winner.
• Announcement of result — Name of the winning candidate will be announced.

If you have to bring certain reforms in the system of elections to Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha in States, which ones would you like to introduce and why?

I would introduce following changes in elections to Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha:

• One Nation One Election — I would introduce simultaneous or synchronised elections in which voters can exercise their separate choices for both Assembly and Lok Sabha polls in one outing. It will optimise public funds and reduce the cost to the exchequer for conducting elections.
• Preventing Criminalisation of Politics — I would introduce more reforms to prevent people with criminal backgrounds to stand for elections.
• No campaign or voting on the basis of caste — Although this rule exists but it is not being followed strictly in our system.
• Paid News — Paid news is any news or analysis appearing in any media (Print and Electronic) for a price in cash or kind. It is quickly becoming a big hurdle in conducting free, fair and transparent elections. I would introduce strict rules to prevent paid news from disrupting elections.

Chapter Chosen

Book chosen, subject chosen, previous year papers, why do we need a parliament.

The Parliament of India is also known as ___________.

Parliament House

None of the above

Explain the role of the Parliament.

Write a short note on the Rajya Sabha.

Rajya Sabha: (i)The Rajya Sabha functions primarily as the representative of the states of India in the Parliament. (ii)The Rajya Sabha can also initiate legislation and a bill is required to pass through the Rajya Sabha in order to become a law. (iii)It, therefore, has an important role of reviewing and altering (if alterations are needed) the laws initiated by the Lok Sabha. (iv)The members of the Rajya Sabha are elected by the elected members of the Legislative Assemblies of various states. (v)There are 233 elected members plus 12 members nominated by the President

EVMs were used throughout the country for the first time in the general elections held in ____________.

The Parliament in India consists of the _________ the Rajya Sabha and the ___________.

• Suggest Edit
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• Fill in the Blank
• True or False
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Write a short note on Speaker of the Lok Sabha?

1.the lok sabha is presided over by the speaker who is elected by its members. the office of the speaker occupies an essential position in our parliamentary democracy. 2.the speaker continues to be in the office even in the houses dissolved, till a new speaker is elected by the new lok sabha. the speaker presides over a joint sitting of the two houses of parliament. 3.he has the power to decide whether a bill is money bill or an ordinary one. the decision of the speaker on whether a bill is money bill is final. 4.under the anti defection of 1985, the speaker is empowered to decide whether a member of the lok sabha is disqualified or not on the basis of the 10th schedule of the constitution. 5.while the office of speaker is vacant or the speaker is absent from the sitting of the house, the deputy speaker presides, except when a resolution for his own removal is under consideration..