Optimism and Challenges of Elected Representatives (MLAs) of Assam: An Analysis

Abstract

In a democratic parliamentary government system, the elected representatives play a vital role not only in the state legislature but also in individual constituencies. The electors voted for the candidates from amongst the candidates of different political parties and the candidate who secured the highest vote is elected as MLA. After election MLAs are empowered with constitutional rights to perform multifarious functions and responsibilities. As legislators MLAs participate in the debates of the bills placed in the house and passed. MLAs have other functions like constituency functions, committee functions, party alignment, etc. Thus, this book chapter is an attempt to study and discuss the role of MLAs of Assam and try to evaluate their role in actual practice. In such analysis, the challenges faced by MLAs are also seen in this academic pursuit. In the study the empirical method is applied to justify the arguments and a structural-functional approach has been applied. The secondary data sources are used in the study. Hence, MLAs face multiple challenges in their functioning. But, despite these challenges, MLAs play a crucial role in shaping policies, addressing public grievances, and ensuring governance at the state level. However, structural reforms, increased accountability, and better administrative coordination can enhance their effectiveness in serving the people.