In the course of the past seven decades since Independence, Rajya Sabha, the second chamber of the Indian parliament, has undergone a spectacular transformation from a decorative appendage to the powerful Lok Sabha into a fighting machine, defending the federal and democratic character of the Indian political system. In this comprehensive and comparative analysis of second chambers, Saxena dissects this stunning development. Scholarly in tone, and backed by valuable empirical data, this book is an important addition to the literature on the resilience of Indian democracy and vibrancy of the federal structure of the political system.
Subrata K Mitra, Emeritus Professor of Political Science, Heidelberg University
Second or Secondary is indeed an issue for most of the institutions representing the components of federal systems. Rekha Saxena has meticulously studied the Rajya Sabha and brought the Indian second chamber to a global audience. A highly recommended read, not only for bicameralists.
Anna Gamper, University Professor, Substitute Judge of the State Court of the Principality of Liechtenstein
Written by an expert scholar of Indian federalism, Saxenas book offers a timely and rigorous examination of the Rajya Sabhas evolving role. By combining theoretical insights with empirical analysis, it illuminates the chambers significance beyond parliamentary procedureessential reading for scholars of Indian politics and federalism.'
Katharine Adeney, Professor of Comparative Politics, University of Nottingham
There is little research on the Indian Parliament, and on the Rajya Sabha, Indias second chamber, in particular. Rekha Saxena's book fills that void: it provides a comprehensive and thoroughly researched understanding of the composition and powers of the Indian upper house and the (limited) role it has played in regional representation within Indias federal system.
Wilfried Swenden, Professor of South Asian and Comparative Politics at the University of Edinburgh and author of Federalism and Second Chambers, Regional Representation in Parliamentary Federations.
A masterful and timely contribution to the study of Indian federalism and parliamentary institutions. This erudite yet accessible work is indispensable for scholars, policymakers, and students of constitutional law and comparative politics. Saxena's balanced, evidence-based approach not only enriches academic discourse but also informs urgent debates on parliamentary reform. Highly recommendeda seminal text that reframes our understanding of India's bicameral system.
Rupak Chattopadhyay, President and Chief Executive Officer, Forum of Federations
