Question

With reference to the powers of the Rajya Sabha, state the following:

1. Any two of its legislative and one financial power.
2. Any three of its administrative powers.
3. (i) Any two of its exclusive (special) powers; (ii) Any two electoral functions.

Answer 1

1. Legislative Powers:
   1. Rajya Sabha enjoys the following legislative powers:
      1. All bills, except the Money Bill, may come from the Rajya Sabha.
      2. A bill cannot become law unless both houses approve it.
      3. In the event of a disagreement, the President may call a joint session of both Houses when matters are decided by a majority of the members present and voting.
   2. Financial Powers: The Rajya Sabha just acts as an advising body in financial matters; the Lok Sabha has ultimate authority. Only the Lok Sabha has the authority to propose a Money Bill. Following its passage by the Lok Sabha, a money bill is referred to the Rajya Sabha for recommendations. Within 14 days, the Rajya Sabha must submit the Bill and its recommendations to the Lok Sabha.
2. Three administrative powers of Rajya Sabha are:
   1. The Rajya Sabha has the authority to approve laws on any topic included in the Union and concurrent lists.
   2. It can punish someone for disrespecting the House or interfering with its business.
   3. It has the power to remove the President from office through the impeachment process.
3. Exclusive powers and electoral functions of the Rajya Sabha.
   1. Two exclusive powers of the Rajya Sabha are:
      1. The Constitution requires that under Article 249, the Rajya Sabha may, by resolution adopted by a two-thirds majority, empower the Parliament to make laws to a matter in the State List, even though the Parliament cannot usually make laws on a state subject. The Lok Sabha lacks the authority to make such claims.
      2. The Rajya Sabha's other unique authority is the declaration that the establishment of new All-India Services is in the country's best interests. After that, Parliament may establish new services.
   2. Two electoral functions are:
      1. The Indian president is chosen by the national assembly in consultation with the state legislatures.
      2. The two Houses of the Parliament choose India's Vice-President.