Committee on Petitions in Rajya Sabha - The Committee on Petitions in the Rajya Sabha plays a vital role in the legislative framework of India. Established in 1952, the same year the Rajya Sabha itself came into existence, this committee was constituted to examine petitions submitted by individuals and organizations. Its primary focus is to address matters of general public importance and issues pertaining to Union subjects. Over the decades, the Committee on Petitions has evolved into a crucial mechanism for public grievance redressal and legislative scrutiny.
Structure and Composition
Initially, the Committee on Petitions comprised a Chairman and four other members. However, in 1964, its membership was expanded to ten members to accommodate the growing responsibilities and importance of the committee. This structure has remained consistent since then.
The committee is constituted under Rule 147 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Rajya Sabha. Members of the committee are nominated by the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. The Chairman of the committee is also appointed by the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha from among the nominated members. This ensures that the committee has a robust leadership structure to handle the petitions effectively.
Functions and Responsibilities
The Committee on Petitions is tasked with examining petitions submitted on bills, policies, and other matters of general public importance. It serves as a channel for citizens and associations to voice their grievances or suggestions on Union subjects. These petitions may involve legislative issues, administrative decisions, or broader concerns affecting public welfare.
Through its deliberations, the committee ensures that public concerns are brought to the notice of policymakers and addressed appropriately. It provides a platform for participatory democracy, enabling citizens to engage with legislative processes and hold the government accountable.
Quorum and Tenure
The quorum for the Committee on Petitions is five members, ensuring that deliberations are conducted with adequate representation. While the committee is typically reconstituted every year, it continues to function until a new committee is nominated. This arrangement allows for continuity in addressing pending matters and ensures that public grievances are not left unresolved.
Comparison with the Lok Sabha Committee
The Committee on Petitions in the Rajya Sabha consists of ten members, whereas the corresponding committee in the Lok Sabha has fifteen members. Despite this difference in composition, both committees share similar functions and objectives, focusing on addressing public concerns and ensuring accountability in governance.
Importance of the Committee
The Committee on Petitions serves as an essential interface between the government and the public. By examining petitions and providing recommendations, it ensures that public grievances are heard and addressed within the legislative framework. The committee also contributes to the transparency and accountability of the government by scrutinizing its policies and actions.
Furthermore, the committee enhances the democratic process by encouraging citizen participation in legislative affairs. It ensures that the voices of individuals and associations are not only heard but also acted upon, thereby strengthening the bond between the public and their representatives.
FAQs About Committee on Petitions in Rajya Sabha
When was the Committee on Petitions in the Rajya Sabha established?
The Committee on Petitions in the Rajya Sabha was established in 1952, the same year the Rajya Sabha came into existence.How many members are there in the Committee on Petitions in the Rajya Sabha?
Since 1964, the Committee on Petitions in the Rajya Sabha has comprised ten members.What is the quorum for the Committee on Petitions in the Rajya Sabha?
The quorum for the Committee on Petitions is five members.Under which rule is the Committee on Petitions constituted?
The Committee on Petitions is constituted under Rule 147 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Rajya Sabha.What are the primary functions of the Committee on Petitions?
The primary functions of the committee include examining petitions on bills and matters of general public importance, addressing grievances, and making recommendations to policymakers.How does the Committee on Petitions enhance democracy?
The committee enhances democracy by providing a platform for citizen participation in legislative processes and ensuring that public grievances are addressed effectively.The Committee on Petitions in the Rajya Sabha remains an indispensable part of India’s parliamentary framework, ensuring that public voices are heard and integrated into the governance process.
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