The Difference Between Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council
When it comes to state governance, most countries have a legislative assembly and a legislative council, in addition to executive and judiciary arms. While these two legislative bodies may have similar functions, they differ in their composition, powers and functions.
Composition
A legislative assembly is usually the lower house of the state legislature and is elected by the people of the state. The term of the assembly is generally five years, and members are elected through a direct vote. The number of representatives is proportional to the population of the state, and each member represents a constituency.
On the other hand, a legislative council is often the upper house of the state legislative system and is not directly elected by the people. In some countries, members of the council are appointed by the governor or the chief minister, while others are elected through a limited franchise that excludes a part of the population. Members of the legislative council are generally experts in their fields or represent specific interest groups, and their term usually lasts for six years.
Powers and Functions
A legislative assembly is responsible for making laws, approving the budget and initiating legislative proposals. The assembly also oversees the functioning of the government, conducts discussions on various matters of national importance, and has the power to impeach state officials.
A legislative council, on the other hand, is responsible for reviewing legislation proposed by the assembly and for offering suggestions to improve its content. The council can also initiate legislation, ask questions of state ministers and departments, and approve any proposed amendments to the constitution.
Conclusion
To sum up, both legislative assembly and legislative council are essential parts of state governance. While a legislative assembly is the elected lower house, a legislative council is the appointed or elected upper chamber. The assembly makes laws and oversees the functioning of the government, while the council reviews legislation, and offers recommendations on its content. Clear understanding of the composition, powers and functions of these two chambers of the state legislature helps in ensuring good governance that meets the needs of the citizens.
Table difference between legislative assembly and legislative council
| Legislative Assembly | Legislative Council |
|---|---|
| The lower house of the state legislature | The upper house of the state legislature |
| Directly elected by the citizens of the state | Indirectly elected by different sections of society like teachers, graduates etc. |
| Members represent specific constituencies or regions of the state | Members represent various interest groups like social, economic, cultural and education sectors |
| Responsible for initiating and passing Bills related to state matters | Can only make suggestions and send back Bills to the Legislative Assembly for approval |
| Can be dissolved by the Governor on the advice of the Chief Minister | Cannot be dissolved as their term is fixed |