Has the governer been acting more of an agent of the center or the constitutional head of the state. Analyse in terms of recent controversies related to governers of India.
Federalism, in simple terms, refers to the division of powers and responsibilities between the different forms of government. In the context of India, the terms show little variation. Instead of a complete separation of powers and responsibilities, certain powers are vested in both the central and sRead more
Federalism, in simple terms, refers to the division of powers and responsibilities between the different forms of government. In the context of India, the terms show little variation. Instead of a complete separation of powers and responsibilities, certain powers are vested in both the central and state governments. Thus, we could say that Indian federalism is cooperative federalism. To understand this better, one must know that the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution guarantees the division of powers between state and centre. Although the constitution doesn’t directly refer to the federal governance structure, the Seventh Schedule divides powers between the Union and states through three lists: the Union List (centre subjects), the State List (state subjects), and the Concurrent List (the central and state governments) (subjects). Thus, Indian federalism is a unique blend of federalism and unitarianism, thus safely referred to as a quasifederal system. This may sound impressive, but it does come with challenges.
- The intricate balance between centralization and regionalism poses challenges.
- A powerful central authority may be perceived as encroaching, while robust regional movements can jeopardise national unity. For example, the revocation of Article 370 without the consent of Jammu and Kashmir’s legislature is a prime example of this dilemma.
- Regional dissatisfaction which stems from calls for autonomy, such as those from the Bodos and Gorkhas.
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Role of Federalism in Shaping the Indian Polity 1. Constitutional Framework: • The Indian Constitution provides a clear demarcation of powers between the Union and State governments through the Union List, State List, and Concurrent List. This ensures a structured division of responsibilities. • TheRead more
Role of Federalism in Shaping the Indian Polity
1. Constitutional Framework:
• The Indian Constitution provides a clear demarcation of powers between the Union and State governments through the Union List, State List, and Concurrent List. This ensures a structured division of responsibilities.
• The Union List contains subjects of national importance like defense, foreign affairs, and atomic energy, while the State List includes subjects like police, public health, and agriculture. The Concurrent List contains subjects where both the Union and the State governments can legislate, such as education and marriage.
2.Autonomy and Unity:
• Federalism allows states to enjoy a degree of autonomy in governance, enabling them to cater to local needs and preferences.
• At the same time, it maintains the unity and integrity of the nation by ensuring a strong central authority to handle issues of national importance.
3. Accommodating Diversity:
• Federalism in India is crucial for managing the country’s linguistic, cultural, and regional diversity. States have the authority to enact laws and policies that reflect local customs and practices.
• The linguistic reorganization of states in the 1950s and 1960s is an example of federalism adapting to the demands of regional identity.
4. Conflict Resolution:
• The federal structure provides a mechanism for resolving conflicts between the center and the states. Institutions like the Inter-State Council and the Finance Commission play significant roles in this regard.
Impact of Federalism on the Indian Political System
1. Political Decentralization:
• Federalism has led to the decentralization of power, empowering state governments and local bodies. This has increased political participation at the grassroots level and brought governance closer to the people.
• The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, which established Panchayati Raj Institutions (rural local governments) and Urban Local Bodies, respectively, are significant milestones in this process.
2. Center-State Relations:
The dynamics of center-state relations are a crucial aspect of Indian federalism. Issues such as the implementation of central schemes, allocation of financial resources, and emergency provisions (like President’s Rule) often create tensions.
See less• Institutions like the Finance Commission play a vital role in ensuring a fair distribution of financial resources between the center and the states, thus impacting their fiscal autonomy.