The Indian Constitution provides several mechanisms for resolving disputes between the Union and the States or among the States themselves. These mechanisms include both judicial and extra-judicial bodies, with the Supreme Court playing a central role. Here’s an examination of these mechanisms:

Constitutional Mechanisms
1. Supreme Court of India
Original Jurisdiction:

Article 131 of the Constitution grants the Supreme Court exclusive original jurisdiction in any dispute between:
The Government of India and one or more States.
The Government of India and any State or States on one side and one or more other States on the other side.
Two or more States.
This jurisdiction allows the Supreme Court to hear disputes directly, without the matter going through lower courts first.
Advisory Jurisdiction:

Under Article 143, the President of India can refer any question of law or fact of public importance to the Supreme Court for its opinion, including disputes involving states or the central government.
Appeal Mechanism:

The Supreme Court also has appellate jurisdiction under Articles 132 to 136, allowing it to hear appeals against judgments from lower courts in cases involving significant legal or constitutional questions.
2. Inter-State Council
Established under Article 263, the Inter-State Council can be constituted by the President to investigate and discuss subjects of common interest between the Union and States or among States.
It serves as an advisory body to recommend policy and administrative measures to resolve disputes.
3. Finance Commission
Under Article 280, the Finance Commission is constituted to define the financial relations between the central government and the individual state governments.
It addresses disputes related to financial allocations and grants-in-aid from the central government to the states.
4. Zonal Councils
Established under the States Reorganization Act of 1956, these councils promote cooperation and coordination between states and the central government.
They address inter-state disputes and provide a platform for dialogue and resolution.
Role of the Supreme Court and Other Dispute Resolution Bodies
Supreme Court:
The Supreme Court’s role is critical due to its authoritative and binding decisions. Its interpretations of constitutional provisions and laws are final.
It ensures the maintenance of federal balance by adjudicating disputes impartially, thereby upholding the supremacy of the Constitution.
Inter-State Council:
Functions as a forum for discussion and recommendations, fostering cooperative federalism.
Though its recommendations are not binding, they can influence legislative and executive actions to resolve disputes.
Finance Commission:
Plays a crucial role in resolving financial disputes by providing recommendations on the distribution of tax revenues between the Union and the States.
Its recommendations, while advisory, are generally respected and implemented to maintain fiscal balance.
Zonal Councils:
Facilitate resolution through dialogue and consensus among member states.
They address socio-economic and political issues that might otherwise escalate into larger disputes.
Conclusion
The constitutional mechanisms in India for resolving disputes between the Union and States or among States are well-structured, combining judicial and non-judicial approaches. The Supreme Court plays a pivotal role through its original and advisory jurisdiction, ensuring judicial resolution of disputes. At the same time, bodies like the Inter-State Council, Finance Commission, and Zonal Councils provide platforms for negotiation, cooperation, and financial adjustment, contributing to the harmonious functioning of the federal structure.