Rajya Sabha
Composition, Character, and Constitutional Basis
The Rajya Sabha (Council of States) is the upper house of India's bicameral Parliament. Unlike the Lok Sabha, it is a permanent house — it cannot be dissolved. Its members serve staggered six-year terms, with approximately one-third retiring every two years. This design ensures institutional continuity even during political transitions.
- Constitutional basis: Article 80 of the Indian Constitution provides for the composition of the Rajya Sabha.
- Maximum strength: 250 members — up to 238 elected representatives of states and Union Territories, plus up to 12 members nominated by the President for distinguished contributions to literature, science, art, or social service.
- Current strength: 245 members (as of 2026).
- Members are elected not by direct popular vote but by elected members of State Legislative Assemblies (MLAs) using the Single Transferable Vote (STV) method of proportional representation.
- Seat allocation to states is based on population; Uttar Pradesh holds the highest share (31 seats).
- Small Union Territories without legislatures (e.g., Ladakh, Andaman & Nicobar, Lakshadweep) have no Rajya Sabha representation.
- The Rajya Sabha Chairman is the Vice-President of India (ex officio); the Deputy Chairman is elected from among members.
● Tracked since March 03, 2026 · last seen June 30, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes
25 Apr '26
AAP Rajya Sabha MPs' Merger with BJP: Anti-Defection Law and the Merger Test
Polity & Governance
24 Apr '26
Anti-Defection Law Mechanics: What Triggers Disqualification in the Rajya Sabha?
Polity & Governance
06 Apr '26
Menaka Guruswamy Becomes India's First Openly Queer Member of Parliament
Polity & Governance
02 Apr '26
Rajya Sabha Erupts as Rijiju Hints at Special Session for Women's Reservation Bill
Economics
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