Lord Hastings, the Governor-General of India from 1813 to 1823, introduced the Policy of Paramountcy. This policy marked a shift in the British East India Company's relationship with Indian states. The company asserted its supreme authority over all Indian rulers, effectively making them subordinateRead more
Lord Hastings, the Governor-General of India from 1813 to 1823, introduced the Policy of Paramountcy. This policy marked a shift in the British East India Company’s relationship with Indian states. The company asserted its supreme authority over all Indian rulers, effectively making them subordinate allies.
The Policy of Paramountcy had several long-term consequences for the sovereignty of Indian princely states:
- Erosion of Autonomy: The British increasingly interfered in the internal affairs of the princely states, dictating policies on succession, taxation, and military.
- Selective Annexation: The policy justified the annexation of Indian territories through doctrines like lapse (failure of a legitimate heir) and subsidiary alliance (where the state couldn’t maintain its own army).
- Reduced Power: Princely states became dependent on British support to retain their thrones, significantly diminishing their independence.
The Policy of Paramountcy laid the groundwork for the eventual British domination of most of India by the late 19th century. While the princely states retained some internal autonomy, their sovereignty was ultimately subject to British control.
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America: A Model Federation The United States is frequently identified with the federal form of government, particularly when comparing us to other nations structurally better aligned with the federal system—power shared between federal, and state governments. The constitution states very specificalRead more
America: A Model Federation
The United States is frequently identified with the federal form of government, particularly when comparing us to other nations structurally better aligned with the federal system—power shared between federal, and state governments. The constitution states very specifically how federation should be constructed in its provisions.
Important Characteristics of Dual Federal System in America
1. Powers divided :
The federal and state have their own powers explicitly known under constitution.
The federal government handles defense, foreign policy and currency; there is no standardized approach for everything else like so many local affairs—education and law enforcement are kept by the state governments.
2. Writ Constitution:
U.S. Constitution is a written document that specify what powers are given and responsibilities to both the federal and state governments.
This is the master statute which standardises between states.
3. Independent Judiciary:
See less– The Supreme Court is the protector of the Constitution as well as adjudicator of conflict between the level of government. It is the judicial authority.
3. Equal Representation of States:
And The Senate: admits that all of the states are equally represented. Having no regard to population, as each state gets two senators
– It gives lower populated states a say in federal matters.