Why Do We Need Two Houses of Parliament?

India’s Parliament which is the central legislative body has two Houses which are the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States). Furthermore, this bicameral system, with two chambers, presents many advantages over a unicameral system (one house). We need two Houses of Parliament as they represent the people of India, it balances the two Houses, both Houses keep a check on each other, there is also a difference in perspective and much more! Let us dive into the details as to why India needs two houses of Parliament. 

Representation and Balance

The two houses of the Parliament represent and balance out one another.

• The Lok Sabha directly represents the people of India who are elected by geographical constituencies.
  • Therefore, this guarantees responsiveness to the favoured will.

• The Rajya Sabha, on the other hand, represents the States and Union territories.
  • Members are elected by State legislatures, hence confirming that States have a say in national matters. 
  • Thus, this encourages federalism and protects the States’ interests.

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Checks and Balances

Moreover, a Bill must be passed by both Houses to become a Law and that is Why Do We Need Two Houses of Parliament.

• The Rajya Sabha can review bills passed by the Lok Sabha, hence offering a revising chamber function. 
• Additionally, this allows for a more thorough examination of legislation and prevents hasty decisions.

Also Read: Sources of the Indian Constitution

Different Perspectives

As both the Houses are different, there will be different perspectives on both sides and that is why We Need Two Houses of Parliament. 

• The Lok Sabha has shorter terms and a direct connection to the people usually reflects the current mood of the electorate.

• The Rajya Sabha has longer terms and members with experience in diverse fields can give a more long-term perspective and expertise on different issues. Moreover, this balanced approach leads to well-rounded legislation.

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Continuity in Governance

Unlike the Lok Sabha, which dissolves with elections, the Rajya Sabha is a Permanent House. 

• One-third of its members retire every 2 years. Thus, guaranteeing continuity and experienced members to guide the legislative process even during Lok Sabha dissolutions.

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Special Powers

The Lok Sabha enjoys greater power in financial matters. 

• It can originate and pass the national budget, while the Rajya Sabha can only recommend changes. 

• Thus, this confirms the importance of the people’s representatives in controlling monetary matters.

Therefore, India’s bicameral Parliament promotes a healthy balance between representing the will of the people and securing the interests of states are considered. The two houses, working together, create a powerful legislative system for the world’s largest democracy.

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