Can a person be a member of both Houses?

Key Points

• A person cannot be a member of both the Houses of Parliament simultaneously.
• The Constitution of India prohibits dual membership in both Lok Sabha (House of the People) and Rajya Sabha (Council of States).
• If a person is elected to both the Houses, they must vacate one seat according to the rules and notifications issued by the Election Commission of India.
• This rule ensures that the principle of separation of powers and checks and balances within the legislative branch is maintained.

Additional Information

• The Constitution of India was adopted by the Constituent Assembly on 26th November 1949 and came into effect on 26th January 1950.
• It lays down the framework defining fundamental political principles, establishes the structure, procedures, powers, and duties of government institutions, and sets out fundamental rights, directive principles, and the duties of citizens.
• The Constitution of India is the longest written constitution of any country in the world.
• It declares India a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic, assuring its citizens justice, equality, and liberty, and endeavors to promote fraternity.
• The Seventh Schedule of the Constitution contains three lists which delineate the subjects under the Union, State, and Concurrent lists.
• Amendments to the Constitution can be made through a process outlined in Article 368.
• The dual membership prohibition is in place to ensure effective governance and representation within the legislative framework.