Q. 4. Some States argue that increasing centralisation in legislative and administrative matters is weakening the federal spirit of the Constitution. Do you agree with this view? Substantiate your answer with recent examples and suggest measures to address these concerns. (250 words, 15 marks)

Introduction 

India is often called a “quasi-federal” state with a strong central tilt, as noted by K.C. Wheare. While this has helped maintain unity, growing centralisation now raises concerns about its fit  with the Constitution’s federal vision. 

Body

Increasing Centralisation: A Growing Concern 

  1. Central laws on State subjects: Parliament is legislating on matters typically reserved for  States. Example: The 2020 farm laws were seen as interference in State-controlled agriculture. 2. Governor’s political role: The office is often seen interfering in State governance. Example: Governors in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal delayed Bills and appointments. 3. Fiscal squeeze on States: States’ financial autonomy has shrunk post-GST and Planning  Commission abolition. 

Example: During COVID-19, States lacked GST control and faced compensation delays. 4. CSS-driven policy control: Centrally Sponsored Schemes restrict State-level flexibility. Example: Uniform rules under PM Awas Yojana and PMGSY limit State discretion. 5. Agency overreach: Central agencies act in States without their full consent. Example: Many States withdrew CBI consent over concerns of misuse. 

Impact on Federal Spirit 

Undermines constitutional federal balance and functional autonomy of States. • Weakens cooperative mechanisms, leading to friction and reduced trust. • Encourages judicial interventions and politicisation of Centre–State relations. • Reduces States’ policy space in sensitive areas like law and order, education, and  welfare. 

However, despite these concerns, India’s federal system has shown resilience. Key national  initiatives highlight effective Centre–State coordination within a cooperative framework. 

Illustrations of Cooperative Federalism in Action 

  1. Consensus-building in taxation policy: The GST Council enables structured Centre–State  fiscal coordination. 

Example: Both Centre and States jointly decide GST rates and structure through consensus. 2. Crisis-time coordination: Pandemic response highlighted effective Centre–State  collaboration. 

Example: COVID-19 lockdowns and vaccine rollouts were coordinated via regular  consultations. 

IASBABA’S SANKALP/TLP GS-2 (POLITY) SYNOPSIS – DAY 16 

  1. Joint service delivery schemes: Some CSS models foster equal partnership with States. Example: Jal Jeevan Mission merges central funds with State-driven implementation for  water access. 

Measures to Address the Concerns 

  1. Strengthen Inter-State Council: Institutionalise Centre–State dialogue as per Punchhi Commission. 

Example: Regular meetings with clear agendas to resolve legislative and administrative  disputes. 

  1. Reform Governor’s Role: Ensure neutrality and accountability in gubernatorial functions. Example: In B.P. Singhal (2010), SC stressed non-partisan Governor conduct and fixed  norms for removal. 
  2. Redesign CSS Framework: Follow NITI Aayog Sub-Group recommendations to increase  flexibility. 

Example: Permit States to modify schemes and use 25–30% funds as untied. 4. Empower State Finance Commissions: Reduce fiscal dependency by strengthening  decentralised planning. 

Example: Ensure timely setup and action on recommendations as urged by 2nd ARC. 5. Redefine roles in Concurrent List: Prevent overlap and conflicts through clearer  demarcation. 

Example: Consult States before passing laws on concurrent subjects, as Punchhi Commission advised. 

Conclusion

Upholding federalism is key to India’s democratic strength. As the Punchhi Commission noted,  cooperative federalism needs ongoing dialogue and trust-based reforms between Centre and  States.

Search now.....

Sign Up To Receive Regular Updates