Demand for Reforms in Rajya Sabha | 02 Dec 2019

Recently, the members of Parliament have demanded equal representation for states and more time to speak in Rajya Sabha.

The Upper House is the Council of States and thus it is expected to reflect the true spirit of federalism through the uniform representation for all states.
- But, currently, the seats in Rajya Sabha are allotted on the basis of population of the particular state. Hence, the number of representatives varies from state to state. For example, Uttar Pradesh has 31 members while Tripura has 1 member only.
Also, smaller states need to have more number of representatives in the house according to issues and needs of the state.
- Currently, the northeastern states, barring Assam have only one seat each in the Rajya Sabha.
The recent demand asks for allocation of seats in Rajya Sabha on the lines of USA.
- In the USA, all states are given equal representation in the Senate, irrespective of their population. The USA has 50 states and the Senate has 100 members—2 from each state.

Currently, the independent or nominated members and MPs from smaller parties get less time to speak in the House. The inadequacy of time to speak for the nominated members restricts the benefits from their special expertise.
- The members of Rajya Sabha are given time to speak according to the strength of their party in the House.