The Relationship between the two Houses of the Parliament:

1. The two Houses of Parliament differ in their composition. From the federal point of view the Rajya Sabha represents the States in the Indian Union while the Lok Sabha is the representative of the Indian people. This is also the reason why the method of election differs.

2. The members of Legislative Assemblies of the States elect the members of Rajya Sabha while the people directly participate in the elections to the Lok Sabha. Rajya Sabha is a permanent House while the Lok Sabha is constituted for a specified term of five years.

3. From the constitutional point of view, the relationship between the two Houses can best be studied from three angles which are as follows:

(i) There are certain powers and functions in which Lok Sabha is superior to the Rajya Sabha. Introduction and adoption of money bills and removal of a cabinet by passing no confidence motion are two examples relevant here.

(ii) In certain areas Rajya Sabha has been vested with exclusive powers. It does not share these powers with the Lok Sabha. For example, it can declare a subject in state as a matter of national importance and facilititate a central legislation.

(iii) In several areas, both the Houses enjoy equal powers. The examples are adoption of bills other than money bills, approval of proclamation of emergency, moving of adjournment and other types of motions.

(iv) Funds: Members of both houses of Parliament get Rs. 2 Crore per annum from their district fund.

(v) This fund is not directly allotted to the MP but to the respective district headquarters but the MP can use it for development projects in his area.