Actual Article
Article 81: Composition of the House of the People
- General Composition:
- The House of the People (Lok Sabha) shall consist of representatives of the States and of the Union territories.
- The maximum strength of the House shall be 552 members: up to 530 from the States, up to 20 from Union territories, and not more than two members to be nominated by the President from the Anglo-Indian community if, in the President’s opinion, they are not adequately represented.
- Direct Elections:
- Representatives of the States shall be directly elected by the people from territorial constituencies in the States.
- The election process shall ensure, as far as practicable, that the ratio between the number of seats allotted to each State and the population of the State is the same for all States.
- Readjustment:
- Upon the completion of each census, the allocation of seats and the division of each State into territorial constituencies shall be readjusted by such authority and in such manner as Parliament may by law determine.
UPSC Notes for Article 81
Explanation:
- Composition of Lok Sabha: Article 81 outlines the composition and strength of the Lok Sabha, ensuring representation from both states and Union territories.
- Direct Elections: Representatives are elected directly by the people, emphasizing democratic principles.
- Proportional Representation: Ensures fair representation based on the population of each state.
- Census-based Readjustment: Allocation of seats and constituencies is revised after each census to reflect population changes.
Key Points:
- Maximum Strength: The Lok Sabha can have up to 552 members, though currently, it consists of 543 members (530 from States and 13 from Union territories).
- Democratic Representation: Members are elected directly by the people, ensuring democratic accountability.
- Census-based Adjustments: Periodic readjustments ensure that representation remains proportional to population changes.
Important Cases and Commissions Related to Article 81
Cases:
- Keshav Singh vs. Speaker, Legislative Assembly (1964): Discussed the powers and privileges of members, indirectly reflecting on the composition and conduct of the Lok Sabha.
- R.C. Poudyal vs. Union of India (1994): Addressed issues related to the representation of Sikkim in the Lok Sabha and emphasized the principle of proportional representation.
Commissions:
- Delimitation Commission: Periodically constituted to readjust the territorial constituencies based on the latest census data.
- Election Commission Reports: Provide insights into the conduct of elections and representation in the Lok Sabha.
Previous Year Prelims Questions Related to Article 81
- (UPSC Prelims 2016) Which of the following statements is correct regarding the composition of the Lok Sabha?
- A. It is a permanent body with a fixed term of five years.
- B. It consists of 545 members.
- C. The President can nominate two members from the Anglo-Indian community.
- D. The maximum strength of the Lok Sabha is 552 members. Correct Answer: D. The maximum strength of the Lok Sabha is 552 members
- (UPSC Prelims 2019) The representation of states in the Lok Sabha is based on:
- A. Population
- B. Area
- C. Economic status
- D. None of the above Correct Answer: A. Population
Previous Year Mains Questions Related to Article 81
- Mains 2015: “Discuss the importance of proportional representation in the Lok Sabha as established by Article 81. How does this ensure fair representation for states?”
- Mains 2018: “Analyze the role of the Delimitation Commission in the context of Article 81. How does periodic readjustment of constituencies contribute to democratic governance?”
Additional Insights:
- Fair Representation: Ensures that larger states have proportionate representation, maintaining a balance between populous and less populous states.
- Democratic Accountability: Direct elections reinforce the accountability of representatives to their constituents, strengthening the democratic process.
- Periodic Adjustments: Reflect changes in population distribution, ensuring that representation remains equitable and relevant.
Understanding Article 81 is crucial for UPSC aspirants as it provides insights into the composition and functioning of the Lok Sabha, highlighting the principles of democratic representation and proportionality in the Indian parliamentary system. This knowledge is essential for both preliminary and main examinations, offering a comprehensive understanding of legislative governance and electoral processes in India.