The Architecture of Representation
Imagine a nation of over 1.4 billion people trying to make a single decision. To manage this, India uses a system of representation built on the principle of Universal Adult Franchise. This fundamental right guarantees that every adult citizen, regardless of their gender, religion, or economic background, has an equal vote. This ensures that the government does not rule by force, but functions with the explicit consent of the people it serves.
At the heart of this system is Parliamentary Supremacy. As the supreme legislative body, Parliament represents the collective will of the nation. Since 1952, India has seen 17 Lok Sabhas, with the 18th Lok Sabha constituted in 2024. This continuity highlights how the Parliamentary Supremacy model allows for peaceful transitions of power while maintaining the authority to make laws and oversee the government's work.
India's national legislature follows Bicameralism, meaning it consists of two distinct houses: the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States), along with the President. The Lok Sabha's 543 members are chosen through direct elections, while the Rajya Sabha's 245 members are elected indirectly by an electoral college consisting of state representatives. Seats in both houses are allocated based on the population of each state to ensure fair representation.
This structure is mirrored at the local level through the State Assembly. Depending on the state's size, it may be unicameral (Vidhan Sabha) or follow Bicameralism with a Vidhan Parishad. Just as the President is the nominal head of the Union, the Governor serves as the constitutional head of the state. Appointed for a five-year term, the Governor ensures that state governance aligns with constitutional mandates.