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The Vidhan Parishad, or State Legislative Council, serves as the upper house in states with a bicameral legislature in India, complementing the Vidhan Sabha (State Legislative Assembly). Its significance, composition, and controversies make it a critical topic for aspirants of competitive exams like UPSC. Here’s everything you need to know about the Vidhan Parishad.
1. What is the Vidhan Parishad?
The Vidhan Parishad is the upper house of the state legislature in India. It exists only in states with a bicameral structure. Currently, 6 states have a legislative council:
- Andhra Pradesh
- Bihar
- Karnataka
- Maharashtra
- Telangana
- Uttar Pradesh
No union territory has a legislative council.
Constitutional Basis
Article 169 of the Constitution of India provides the framework for the creation or abolition of the Vidhan Parishad in a state.
2. Composition of the Vidhan Parishad
The composition of the Vidhan Parishad is unique and diverse:
- One-third: Elected by local bodies (municipalities, gram panchayats, etc.)
- One-third: Elected by members of the State Legislative Assembly from non-Assembly members.
- One-sixth: Nominated by the Governor, typically individuals with expertise in fields like literature, science, and arts.
- One-twelfth: Elected by graduates residing in the state.
- One-twelfth: Elected by teachers with at least three years of teaching experience in secondary schools or higher education institutions.
Tenure and Membership
- Members serve for six years, with one-third retiring every two years.
- Minimum size: 40 members.
- Maximum size: Cannot exceed one-third of the Vidhan Sabha membership.
3. Powers and Roles of the Vidhan Parishad
The powers of the Vidhan Parishad are limited compared to the Vidhan Sabha:
- It cannot form or dissolve a state government.
- It has no authority over money bills, which are decided by the Vidhan Sabha.
- It acts as a revisory body for non-money bills and debates state policies.
The Chairman and Deputy Chairman of the Vidhan Parishad enjoy status equivalent to Cabinet Ministers in the state.
4. Creation and Abolition
The Vidhan Parishad can be created or abolished by Parliament, following a resolution passed by the respective state’s legislative assembly with a special majority.
Proposed Legislative Councils
States like Rajasthan, Odisha, Assam, and West Bengal have ongoing proposals to establish a Vidhan Parishad.
5. Criticism and Support
Criticism:
- Viewed as a financial burden on state budgets.
- Criticized for being a way for defeated political leaders to secure positions.
- Alleged to slow down legislative processes.
Support:
- Represents local governments and experts.
- Provides a revisory mechanism, ensuring broader debate on state issues.
6. Current Legislative Councils in India
Here is the status of existing legislative councils:
| State | Seats | Party in Majority |
|---|---|---|
| Andhra Pradesh | 58 | Telugu Desam Party |
| Bihar | 75 | Janata Dal (United) |
| Karnataka | 75 | Indian National Congress |
| Maharashtra | 78 | Bharatiya Janata Party |
| Telangana | 40 | Indian National Congress |
| Uttar Pradesh | 100 | Bharatiya Janata Party |
7. Major Differences Between Vidhan Parishad and Vidhan Sabha
| Feature | Vidhan Sabha | Vidhan Parishad |
|---|---|---|
| Nature | Lower House | Upper House |
| Tenure | 5 years | 6 years (1/3 retires every 2 years) |
| Composition | Directly elected by people | Indirectly elected and nominated |
| Minimum Members | 60 | 40 |
8. Former Legislative Councils
Several states, including Tamil Nadu, Punjab, and West Bengal, abolished their councils, citing inefficiency and financial constraints.
9. Relevance for UPSC Aspirants
Understanding the Vidhan Parishad is crucial for topics related to:
- Indian polity and governance.
- Constitution of India.
- Comparative studies of legislative systems.
Conclusion
The Vidhan Parishad, though controversial, plays a significant role in India’s bicameral legislative structure. Its relevance lies in providing a revisory mechanism and representing varied interests within states. For UPSC aspirants, mastering the nuances of the Vidhan Parishad can provide a strong foundation in Indian polity.
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