India, the world's largest democracy, relies on its robust system of governance, where the Parliament and Legislatures play pivotal roles. These institutions are the backbone of legislative functions, ensuring that democracy thrives through representation, debate, and lawmaking.
1. Understanding the Indian Parliament
The Parliament of India is a bicameral legislature that operates at the national level. It consists of two houses:
a) The Rajya Sabha (Council of States)
Composition: Maximum strength of 250 members, with representatives from states, union territories, and 12 nominated members by the President for their expertise in various fields like art, science, literature, and social services.
Role: A permanent house that represents the states of India and provides a forum for debate and deliberation.
Tenure: Members serve staggered six-year terms, with one-third retiring every two years.
b) The Lok Sabha (House of the People)
Composition: Maximum strength of 552 members, directly elected by the people of India based on universal adult suffrage.
Role: Responsible for framing laws, controlling finances, and representing the will of the people.
Tenure: Members serve a five-year term unless dissolved earlier.
c) The President of India
- The President is an integral part of the Parliament, primarily responsible for summoning, proroguing sessions, and giving assent to bills.
2. Powers and Functions of the Indian Parliament
a) Legislative Powers
The Parliament is responsible for framing laws on subjects enumerated in the Union List and, under certain circumstances, the Concurrent List.
b) Financial Powers
No tax can be levied or money spent without the Parliament's approval.
The Annual Budget is passed by the Lok Sabha.
c) Executive Control
- The Parliament holds the executive accountable through questions, debates, motions, and discussions.
d) Amending the Constitution
- The Parliament plays a crucial role in constitutional amendments under Article 368.
e) Electoral Functions
- The Parliament participates in the election of the President and Vice-President.
3. State Legislatures
At the state level, legislative powers are vested in the State Legislatures, which consist of two houses in some states (bicameral) and one house in others (unicameral).
a) Bicameral Legislatures
States like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Karnataka have two houses:
Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha)
Legislative Council (Vidhan Parishad)
b) Unicameral Legislatures
- Most states have only a Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha).
c) Powers and Functions
Similar to the Parliament, state legislatures are responsible for lawmaking on subjects in the State List and Concurrent List.
They control the state's finances and hold the state executive accountable.
4. Comparison: Parliament vs. State Legislatures
| Aspect | Parliament | State Legislature |
| Level | National | State |
| Houses | Bicameral | Unicameral or Bicameral |
| Legislative Scope | Union and Concurrent Lists | State and Concurrent Lists |
| Tenure | Lok Sabha: 5 years | Vidhan Sabha: 5 years |
| Head of the Executive | Prime Minister | Chief Minister |
5. Challenges and the Way Forward
Challenges
Disruptions in Sessions: Frequent adjournments reduce productivity.
Lack of Representation: Women and marginalized groups are underrepresented.
Overlapping Jurisdictions: Issues often arise due to the overlapping of Union and State Lists.
Recommendations
Strengthening parliamentary committees for better scrutiny.
Increasing transparency in legislative functioning.
Encouraging wider representation, including reservation for women.
6. Conclusion
The Parliament and Legislatures are vital pillars of Indian democracy. They reflect the will of the people, act as forums for discussion and debate, and ensure accountability of the executive. For India to thrive as a democracy, these institutions must function efficiently, transparently, and inclusively. By addressing challenges and embracing reforms, they can continue to uphold the democratic ethos of the nation.