Day 18 – Q. 4. “Rajya Sabha is not a secondary chamber, but a complementary one.” In light of this statement, evaluate the role and contemporary relevance of the Rajya Sabha in Indian polity. (250 words, 15 marks)

Q. 4. “Rajya Sabha is not a secondary chamber, but a complementary one.” In light of this statement, evaluate the role and contemporary relevance of the Rajya Sabha in Indian polity. (250 words, 15 marks)

Introduction 

Article 79 establishes a bicameral Parliament consisting of the President, Lok Sabha, and Rajya  Sabha. As the Upper House, Rajya Sabha plays a vital role in federal balance, scrutiny, and  continuity. 

Body

Constitutional Provisions Pertaining to Rajya Sabha 

• Article 80: Composition and election of members. 
• Article 84: Qualification for membership in Parliament. 
• Article 249: Power to legislate on State subjects in national interest. 
• Article 312: Creation of All India Services with Rajya Sabha approval. 
• Article 108: Role in resolving legislative deadlock via joint sitting. 

Why Rajya Sabha is a Complementary Chamber 

1. Federal Balance: Represents States and Union Territories, ensuring federal character. Example: Resolution under Article 249 to empower Parliament on state subjects.
2. Expertise and Continuity: Being a permanent house, it retains experienced voices for sober  deliberation. Example: Legal experts and economists contribute during crucial bill debates (e.g., GST Bill)
3. Checks and Deliberation: Slows hasty legislation and facilitates deeper scrutiny. Example: Amendments suggested in the Forest Conservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023.
4. All-India Services Creation: Has sole power to authorize new All India Services under Article  312. Example: Rajya Sabha enabled creation of Indian Forest Service.
5. Platform for Non-Majoritarian Voices: Offers space to regional, minority, and intellectual  perspectives. Example: Nominated members like Sudha Murthy enriched debates. 

Contemporary Relevance 

1. Legislative Refinement: Reviews and suggests amendments, often leading to better laws. Example: Changes in Consumer Protection Bill post RS review. 
2. Guard Against Populism: Provides institutional stability against sudden electoral swings. Example: Stalled controversial bills for wider consultation (e.g., Farm Laws debate).
3. Voice of the States: Raises issues of regional concern neglected by national politics. Example: North-Eastern MPs pressing infrastructure and autonomy concerns.
4. National Interest Overlaps: Enables central legislation on state matters when needed. Example: Article 249 resolutions for counter-terror and economic matters.
5. Forum for Intellectual Debate: Focuses more on issue-based discussion than party politics. Example: Debates on climate change, digital economy led by domain experts. 

Issues and Concerns 

1. Ruling Party Dominance: Weakens the chamber’s reviewing role when the same party  controls both houses. Example: Key bills passed with minimal Rajya Sabha debate since 2019
2. Low Productivity: Disruptions and walkouts often reduce meaningful discussion. Example: Only 23% productivity in Winter Session 2023. 
3. Lack of Regional Assertiveness: Many members toe the party line, diluting federal voice. Example: Limited pushback on central schemes affecting state finances. 
4. Nominated Member Concerns: Critics argue the selection often reflects political patronage. Example: Appointment of actors/sports figures without legislative interest or expertise. 

Judicial Observation 

• Kuldip Nayar v. Union of India (2006): SC upheld indirect election as valid and essential to  federalism. 
• Rajasthan Assembly Case (2024): SC reiterated bicameralism strengthens democracy by  enabling checks and debate. 

Way Forward 

1. Promote Greater Deliberation: Rajya Sabha should adopt the NCRWC (2001)  recommendation to function more as a forum for states and expert deliberation, rather than  mirroring Lok Sabha politics. 
2. Reform of Nominated Members’ Criteria: P.V. Rajamannar Committee suggested that  nominations must reflect domain expertise, not political loyalty, ensuring quality debate.
3. Synchronize Sessions & Committees: M.N. Venkatachaliah Commission advocated synchronised legislative calendar and active committee referrals to improve productivity and  scrutiny.

Conclusion

Rajya Sabha enriches India’s democracy through deliberation, federalism, and policy depth.  Strengthening its autonomy ensures it remains a vital national institution, not just a procedural  formality.