Features of the Constitution

The document explores India’s quasi-federal structure, where power is divided between the Centre and the States but with a strong centralizing tendency. While the Constitution provides a framework for shared governance, it grants the Centre greater authority in key matters. It examines the division of legislative powers, the role of Governors, and Article 356, which allows the Centre to impose President’s Rule in states. It also discusses Article 370, which once granted special status to Jammu & Kashmir, and its revocation in 2019. Additionally, it highlights the formation of Indian states, Centre-State relations, and recommendations from the Sarkaria Commission.

India follows a dual polity where both the Union and the States have independent areas of authority. However, the Centre wields greater power, especially during emergencies, making India a centralized federation. The Constitution divides subjects into three lists: the Union List (defense, foreign affairs), the State List (police, public health), and the Concurrent List (education, marriage laws).

Governors, as representatives of the Centre in states, often play a controversial role, particularly when invoking President’s Rule under Article 356, which has been criticized for political misuse. The S.R. Bommai case (1994) set judicial limits on its arbitrary application.

The document also outlines how state boundaries have evolved, often based on linguistic and administrative considerations. The revocation of Article 370 in 2019 significantly altered Jammu & Kashmir’s status, converting it into two Union Territories.

Ultimately, the study highlights the need for cooperative federalism to balance Centre-State relations, minimize conflicts, and ensure a governance system that strengthens democracy while respecting regional autonomy.

Keywords:  Federalism, Constitution, Union List, State List, Concurrent List, Governors, Article 356, President’s Rule, Article 370, Jammu & Kashmir, Bicameral Legislature, Centre-State Relations