Unlocking the Role and Responsibilities of Rajya Sabha MPs: How They Are Selected, Their Powers, and More

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The upcoming Rajya Sabha election, scheduled for February 27, aims to fill 56 vacant seats in the Upper House of the Indian Parliament. This electoral necessity arises as the tenure of 56 incumbent members, including notable figures like former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and BJP chief JP Nadda, is set to conclude in April. Among the vacant seats are those held by nine Union ministers, such as Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, and Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav.

Selection Process of Rajya Sabha MPs

Unlike the Lok Sabha, where members serve for five years, Rajya Sabha members have a tenure of six years. Every two years, one-third of the members retire, and new members are elected to fill their seats. The election process involves elected members of the State Legislative Assemblies (MLAs) and Union territories, who vote through a system called proportional representation by means of single transferable vote (STV).

Requirements to Become a Rajya Sabha MP

To qualify as a Rajya Sabha member, an individual must be a citizen of India, at least 30 years of age, and meet any other qualifications prescribed by law.

Responsibilities of Rajya Sabha MPs

1. Legislative Responsibility: Rajya Sabha members play a pivotal role in the enactment of laws. No bill can become law unless it is passed by the Upper House. In case of a deadlock between the two Houses, a joint sitting is convened to resolve the impasse.
2. Electoral Responsibility: Members participate in the election of the President and Vice President of India. However, nominated MPs do not vote in the election of the President of India but can vote in the election of the Vice President.
3. Power of the Purse Responsibility: MPs oversee government revenues and expenditures, approving budgets proposed by the government. Ministers who are also members of Parliament have additional executive responsibilities compared to those who are not in the Council of Ministers.

Special Powers of Rajya Sabha

• Empowerment to make laws in respect of any matter enumerated in the State List in the national interest by adopting a resolution.
• Authority to create or dissolve All India Services based on national interest, with a two-thirds majority resolution.

As India gears up for these crucial elections, understanding the selection process, powers, and responsibilities of Rajya Sabha MPs is essential for ensuring effective governance and representation in the Upper House of Parliament.

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