Q6General Studies
Question
10 marks
[CO4] Critically examine the Indian federalism.
Answer
Indian federalism is a unique, quasi-federal system with a strong unitary bias, characterised by a constitutional division of powers between the Union and States, with provisions for central dominance during emergencies.
- Written constitution with division of powers (Union, State, and Concurrent Lists)
- Supremacy of the Constitution
- Independent judiciary with power of judicial review
- Bicameral legislature at the Centre (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha)
- Separate governments at Centre and State levels
- Residuary powers vest with the Union (unlike USA where states get residuary powers)
- States are not equal in the Rajya Sabha (unlike the US Senate)
- Governor appointed by and responsible to the Centre — acts as agent of Centre
- Emergency provisions (Articles 352, 356, 360) allow Centre to take over states
- Parliament can alter state boundaries without state consent
- All-India Services (IAS, IPS) controlled by Centre though serving in states
- Single citizenship for all Indians