Special powers of the Rajya Sabha

The Special powers of the Rajya Sabha are in the form of initiating certain resolutions. These are :

1)      Removal of Vice-President :

A resolution seeking the removal of the Vice-President can originate only in the Rajya Sabha, where the resolution must be passed by a majority of all the members of the Rajya Sabha, and agreed to by the Lok Sabha.

2)      Law on State List :

If the Rajya Sabha passes a resolution by a majority of not less than two-thirds of the members present and voting, that it is necessary or expedient in the national interest that Parliament should make laws with respect to any matter enumerated in the State List, it shall be lawful for Parliament to make law for the whole or any part of the territory of India on that matter for a period of not more than one year.

v  However, the Rajya Sabha by passing similar resolution can extend the power of Parliament to legislate on a State subject, but each time for a period of not more than one year only.

3)      Creation of All-India Service :

If the Rajya Sabha passes a resolution by a majority of not less than two-thirds of the members present and voting, that it is necessary or expedient in the national interest, to create one or more All-India Services, Parliament by law may provide for such service.