The members of the Rajya Sabha are elected by

Correct option is A

The correct answer is (a) the elected members of the Legislative Assembly

Members of the Rajya Sabha (the Upper House of Parliament) are elected by the elected members of the State Legislative Assemblies using a system of proportional representation by means of a single transferable vote.

Key Details:

Election Process:

• Rajya Sabha members are indirectly elected.
• The elected members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) from each state and Union Territory with a legislature vote in this election.

Proportional Representation:

• The election uses the single transferable vote system to ensure representation of all political parties based on their strength in the Legislative Assembly.

Nomination by the President:

• In addition to the elected members, the President of India nominates 12 members to the Rajya Sabha for their expertise in fields like literature, science, art, and social service.

Distribution of Seats:

• The number of seats allocated to each state in the Rajya Sabha is based on its population.
• For example, Uttar Pradesh has the highest number of seats, while smaller states like Sikkim have only one seat.

Additional Information:

Composition of Rajya Sabha:

• Maximum Strength:
  • 250 Members as per the Constitution:
    • 238 members: Elected representatives of the states and Union Territories.
    • 12 members: Nominated by the President of India.
• Current Strength:
  • As of now, the Rajya Sabha has 245 members:
    • 233 elected members representing states and Union Territories.
    • 12 nominated members.

Tenure and Retirement:

• Term:
  • Rajya Sabha members have a 6-year term.
  • Unlike the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha is a permanent body and is not subject to dissolution.
• Retirement:
  • One-third of its members retire every two years, ensuring continuity.

Eligibility for Membership:

• Qualifications:
  • Must be a citizen of India.
  • Must be at least 30 years old.
  • Must possess qualifications prescribed by Parliament under the Representation of the People Act.
• Disqualifications:
  • Holding an office of profit.
  • Unsound mind, insolvency, or criminal conviction.