Q.<p>Rajya Sabha has been transformed from a ‘useless stepney tyre’ to the most useful supporting organ in past few decades. Highlight the factors as well as the areas in which this transformation could be visible.</p>

Syllabus Point

• Parliament and State Legislatures — Structure, Functioning, Conduct of Business, Powers & Privileges and Issues Arising out of these.

Approach

• Introduction (30-40 words): Define the historical perception of Rajya Sabha as a secondary body or "useless stepney tire."

• Body (80-90 words): Discuss factors contributing to the transformation and the visible impact of this transformation.

• Conclusion (20 words): Summarize Rajya Sabha’s transformation into an essential, dynamic legislative body.

---

Model Answer

Introduction

The Rajya Sabha, India's upper house of Parliament, was established under the Government of India Act, 1919. While historically criticized as a redundant "useless stepney tyre" meant only to delay legislation, it has evolved into a crucial deliberative body and a pillar of federal balance.

Factors Driving the Transformation

• Cooperative Federalism: The deepening of democratic processes has elevated the Rajya Sabha's role as a platform to represent state interests, forcing the ruling government to seek consensus.

• Rise of Regional Parties: Since the 1980s, the growth of regional parties has diversified the composition of the Rajya Sabha, giving regional issues a powerful voice in national law-making.

• Era of Coalition Governments: The coalition era of the 1990s made the Rajya Sabha indispensable, as passing legislation required building broad political consensus across party lines.

• Need for Expert Opinion: The complex nature of modern legislation (e.g., Personal Data Protection Bill, Surrogacy Bill) has highlighted the value of the Rajya Sabha's nominated experts and detailed committee reviews.

Visible Impact of the Transformation

• Constitutional Decisions: The Rajya Sabha played a critical role in major legislative actions, such as the abrogation of Article 370, where its consent was vital.

• Fiscal Reforms: The passage of the GST Act showcased the Rajya Sabha's role in securing state support for landmark economic reforms.

• Legislative Check: Its ability to block or modify controversial bills, such as the rejection of the POTA Act in 2002 (which led to a rare joint sitting under Article 108), highlights its role as a check against hasty legislation.

Conclusion

Despite occasional challenges like disruptions and low productivity, the Rajya Sabha has successfully shed its image as a secondary chamber. It now functions as an essential deliberative house that strengthens Indian federalism and ensures robust legislative scrutiny.