Unit 5: Union Legislature & Judiciary
Table of Contents
- 1. The Parliament of India: Composition
- 2. Powers and Functions of Parliament
- 3. Relationship between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha
- 4. Parliamentary control over the Executive
- 5. Judiciary in India: Structure
- 6. The Supreme Court: Composition and Jurisdiction
- 7. Judicial Review
- 8. Exam Corner: Key Concepts
1. The Parliament of India: Composition
The Parliament is the supreme legislative body of India. It is bicameral (has two Houses). As per the Constitution, Parliament consists of:
- The President
- The Lok Sabha (House of the People / Lower House)
- The Rajya Sabha (Council of States / Upper House)
| Feature | Lok Sabha (House of the People) | Rajya Sabha (Council of States) |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Directly elected by the people. Represents the *people* of India. | Indirectly elected by state MLAs. Represents the *states* of India. |
| Term | 5 years. Can be dissolved earlier by the President. | Permanent Body (cannot be dissolved). Members have a 6-year term; 1/3rd retire every 2 years. |
| Strength | Maximum 550 (530 from states, 20 from UTs). | Maximum 250 (238 elected from states/UTs, 12 nominated by the President). |