The Bihar Legislature, known as the Bihar Vidhan Mandal, is the supreme legislative body of the Indian state of Bihar. It's a bicameral system, meaning it comprises two houses:
Bihar Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha): The lower house
Bihar Legislative Council (Vidhan Parishad): The upper house
This structure mirrors the Parliament of India, with the Vidhan Sabha analogous to the Lok Sabha and the Vidhan Parishad to the Rajya Sabha.
Bihar Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha)
Composition: The Vidhan Sabha is composed of 243 members directly elected by the people of Bihar from single-member constituencies. These members are known as Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs).
Term: The term of the Vidhan Sabha is five years, unless dissolved sooner.
Powers and Functions:
Legislative Powers: The primary function of the Vidhan Sabha is to make laws for the state of Bihar. Bills related to state subjects can originate in either house, but money bills must originate in the Vidhan Sabha.
Financial Powers: The Vidhan Sabha has control over the state's finances. It approves the state budget and scrutinizes government expenditure.
Executive Powers: The Vidhan Sabha holds the state government accountable. It can question ministers, move motions of no confidence, and participate in debates on matters of public importance.
Electoral Functions: The MLAs of the Vidhan Sabha participate in the election of the President of India.
Bihar Legislative Council (Vidhan Parishad)
Composition: The Vidhan Parishad has 75 members, with a unique composition:
One-third (25 members) are elected by members of local bodies (municipalities, district boards, etc.).
One-third (25 members) are elected by graduates residing in Bihar for at least three years.
One-twelfth (6 members) are elected by teachers who have been teaching in Bihar for at least three years.
One-third (12 members) are nominated by the Governor from among persons with special knowledge or practical experience in fields like literature, science, art, cooperative movement, and social service.
Remaining (7 members) are elected by the MLAs of the Vidhan Sabha through proportional representation.
Term: The Vidhan Parishad is a permanent body, with one-third of its members retiring every two years. Each member has a six-year term.
Powers and Functions:
Legislative Powers: The Vidhan Parishad can initiate and pass bills, except for money bills. If there's a disagreement between the two houses on a bill, a joint sitting can be called. However, due to the Vidhan Sabha's larger size, its will generally prevails.
Advisory Role: The Vidhan Parishad primarily acts as a revising and advisory body. It provides a platform for experienced and knowledgeable individuals to contribute to lawmaking.
Delaying Power: The Vidhan Parishad can delay a bill passed by the Vidhan Sabha for a maximum of four months. This allows for further scrutiny and debate.
Key Features of the Bicameral System in Bihar
Checks and Balances: The bicameral system ensures checks and balances between the two houses, preventing hasty legislation and promoting thorough deliberation.
Representation of Diverse Interests: The composition of the Vidhan Parishad ensures representation of various groups like local bodies, graduates, teachers, and experts, providing a broader perspective on issues.
Stability: The permanent nature of the Vidhan Parishad provides stability and continuity in the legislative process.
Current Composition of the Bihar Legislature
As of December 14, 2024, the political landscape in the Bihar Legislature is as follows:
Vidhan Sabha:
Ruling Alliance: National Democratic Alliance (NDA) with a majority
Major Parties: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Janata Dal (United) (JD(U))
Opposition Alliance: Mahagathbandhan (MGB)
Major Opposition Parties: Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Indian National Congress (INC)
Vidhan Parishad:
The NDA also holds a majority in the Vidhan Parishad.
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