what provision are made in Indian constitution to make India a federal...
what provision are made in Indian constitution to make India a federal...
The Indian Constitution provides several provisions to establish India as a federal country. These provisions are aimed at ensuring a division of powers between the central government and the state governments, promoting unity in diversity, and safeguarding the interests of different regions and communities within the country.
1. Division of Powers:
The Constitution clearly delineates the powers and functions of the central government and the state governments. It establishes a three-tiered structure of government, with powers divided between the central, state, and local governments. This division of powers is enshrined in the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution, which lists the subjects under the exclusive jurisdiction of the central government (Union List), state governments (State List), and both (Concurrent List). This ensures that both the central and state governments have their respective spheres of authority.
2. Dual Polity:
The Indian Constitution establishes a dual polity, with governments at both the central and state levels. It provides for the establishment of a Parliament at the center, consisting of the President and two houses - the Rajya Sabha (Council of States) and the Lok Sabha (House of the People). At the state level, there are legislative assemblies and councils, headed by a Chief Minister. This dual polity ensures that power is shared between the central and state governments.
3. Federal Courts:
To ensure the federal character of the country, the Constitution establishes an independent judiciary with the Supreme Court at the apex. The Supreme Court acts as the guardian of the Constitution and has the power to interpret and enforce the provisions related to federalism. It resolves disputes between the central and state governments, ensuring the distribution of powers is maintained.
4. Residual Powers:
The Constitution grants certain residual powers to the central government. These powers, which are not specifically mentioned in any of the three lists (Union, State, Concurrent), are vested with the central government. This provision ensures that the central government has the authority to legislate on matters not covered by the specific lists, thus maintaining the federal structure.
5. Emergency Provisions:
The Constitution includes emergency provisions that can be invoked in times of national crisis. During a state of emergency, the central government assumes greater authority and can exercise its powers over the states. However, these emergency provisions are meant to be temporary and are subject to constitutional checks and balances.
6. Inter-State Council:
The Constitution provides for the establishment of an Inter-State Council, headed by the Prime Minister, to promote coordination between the center and the states. The council acts as a platform for dialogue and consultation on matters of common interest, ensuring cooperation and collaboration between the different levels of government.
In conclusion, the Indian Constitution includes various provisions to establish India as a federal country. These provisions ensure a division of powers, a dual polity, an independent judiciary, residual powers for the central government, emergency provisions, and mechanisms for intergovernmental coordination. These provisions uphold the principles of federalism while also promoting unity and diversity within the country.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed Class 10 study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in Class 10.