The Indian Constitution embodies a mix of federal and unitary principles, making it a quasi-federal or federal-with-unitary-features system.
Federal Principles:
1. Division of powers: Seventh Schedule allocates powers between Union and States.
2. Dual government: Union and State governments exist separately.
3. Independent judiciary: Ensures federal balance.
Unitary Principles:
1. Strong Central government: Residual powers vested in Union.
2. Single citizenship: Indian citizenship, not state-specific.
3. Emergency provisions: Central intervention in state affairs.
Predominance of Federal Principle:
While the federal principle is significant, the unitary principle predominates in certain aspects:
1. Central control over states during emergencies (Article 356).
2. Union’s residuary powers (Article 248).
3. Parliament’s power to amend Constitution (Article 368).
Reasons for Unitary Leanings:
1. Historical context: India’s diversity and need for national integration.
2. Economic considerations: Centralized planning and resource allocation.
3. Security concerns: National security and defense.
Federalism in Practice:
Despite unitary leanings, federalism has strengthened over time:
1. Decentralization: 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments (1992).
2. Increased state autonomy: Finance Commission recommendations.
3. Cooperative federalism: GST Council, Inter-State Council.
Challenges and Opportunities:
1. Balancing power sharing: Between Union and States.
2. Addressing regional disparities: Economic and social development.
3. Strengthening institutional frameworks: For effective federalism.
Conclusion:
India’s Constitution embodies a unique blend of federal and unitary principles. While the unitary principle predominates in certain aspects, federalism has gained significance over time. The key to successful governance lies in striking a balance between the two, fostering cooperative federalism, and addressing regional concerns.
Views:
To further strengthen federalism:
1. Enhance state autonomy in decision-making.
2. Improve inter-state cooperation and dialogue.
3. Strengthen institutional frameworks for federalism.
To maintain national unity and integrity:
1. Ensure effective Centre-state coordination.
2. Address regional disparities through targeted development.
3. Foster a sense of shared citizenship and national identity.
Would you like to explore :
1. Federalism and decentralization
2. Unitary features in Indian Constitution
3. Cooperative federalism
4. Challenges in federalism