State Legislatures in India: Structure, Function, and Constitutional Provisions

Introduction

Each state in India has a legislature comprising the Governor and either one or two Houses, depending on the state. There is no uniformity in state legislatures. In Bihar, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh, there are two Houses known as the Legislative Council and the Legislative Assembly. Conversely, in the remaining states, there is only one House known as the Legislative Assembly. =

• Constitutional provisions regarding state legislature have been covered in Part VI- Articles 168 – 212.
• The Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha) is chosen by direct election from territorial constituencies in the state.
• Composition: Governor + Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha) + Legislative Council (Vidhan Parishad) (in case of bicameral).
• Article 169: Parliament can abolish a Legislative Council or create it if the legislative assembly of the concerned state passes a resolution by a Special Majority to that effect. 
  • This Act of Parliament is not to be deemed as an amendment of the Constitution for the purposes of Art. 368 and is passed like an ordinary piece of legislation (by Simple Majority).

Legislative Assembly Composition and Functioning in India

Conclusion

Legislative assemblies serve as the cornerstone of democratic governance, where elected representatives debate, enact, and amend laws to address the needs and concerns of society. Through robust deliberation and collaboration, they strive to uphold the principles of accountability, representation, and transparency, fostering a vibrant democratic system that reflects the will of the people.

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