Strong Centre Framework in Federalism in India [UGC NTA NET Political Science Notes]

The Strong Centre Framework in Indian federalism signifies a concentration of power within the central government. This framework often diminishes the autonomy of states. The Constitution of India establishes a unique balance between state and central authority. However, the central government holds influence over various aspects of governance.

Constitutional Provisions

The Constitution lays the foundation for a strong central authority in India.

1. Article 1: Declares India as a Union of States, reinforcing central authority.
2. Article 356: Empowers the President to impose President’s Rule in states, allowing central governance.
3. Article 249: Allows Parliament to legislate on State List matters if the Rajya Sabha passes a resolution.
4. Article 252: Permits states to consent to central legislation on State List subjects.
5. Article 253: Grants the central government power to legislate for international treaty implementation.

These articles illustrate the constitutional backing for a strong Centre, often limiting state autonomy.

Legislative Powers

The distribution of legislative powers is crucial in understanding the Strong Centre Framework.

• Union List: Contains 97 subjects exclusive to the central government.
• Concurrent List: Encompasses 47 subjects where both central and state governments can legislate. Central law prevails in case of conflict.
• State List: Comprises 66 subjects reserved for states, but central legislation can override state laws.

This structure often results in a central government asserting dominance over state legislation.

Financial Powers

Financial control is another area where the central government exerts influence.

1. Revenue Distribution: The central government holds control over taxation and revenue allocation.
2. Finance Commission: Formed every five years, it advises on tax distribution between the Centre and states.
3. Grants-in-aid: Central financial assistance to states can shape state policies and priorities.

These financial powers enable the central government to influence state governance effectively.

Administrative Powers

The central government maintains control over administrative services.

• All India Services: Services like IAS, IPS, and IFS operate under central control, serving both levels of government.
• Central Bureaucracy: Central agencies can intervene in state matters, particularly in law and order situations.

This control ensures that the central government can exert influence over state administration.

Emergency Provisions

Emergency provisions provide the central government with enhanced powers during crises.

1. National Emergency (Article 352): Central government can assume greater powers during national emergencies.
2. State Emergency (Article 356): Central government can take over state administration when required.
3. Financial Emergency (Article 360): Central government can control state finances during financial crises.

These provisions further consolidate central authority, especially during challenging times.

Judicial Powers

The judiciary plays a vital role in the federal structure.

• Supreme Court: Acts as the final arbiter in disputes between the Centre and states, often favouring central authority.
• Judicial Review: Central laws can be upheld even if they infringe upon state powers, reinforcing central dominance.

The judiciary’s role often results in a centralised interpretation of federalism.

Political Dynamics

The political landscape influences the Strong Centre Framework.

1. Centralised Political Parties: Major parties often have strong central leadership, impacting state politics.
2. Coalition Politics: Alliances can strengthen central authority, as regional parties align with national parties.

These dynamics contribute to the central government’s influence over states.

Historical Context

About the historical background is essential.

• Government of India Act, 1935: Established a federal structure with a strong central bias.
• Constitution of India, 1950: Designed to maintain a strong Centre for national unity and integrity.

These historical documents laid the groundwork for the current federal framework.

Criticism

The Strong Centre Framework has faced criticism from various quarters.

1. State Autonomy: Critics argue that a strong Centre undermines the federal spirit and state rights.
2. Central Overreach: There are concerns about the central government overstepping its authority into state matters.

These criticisms highlight the tension between central and state powers.

Recent Developments

Recent changes have further shaped the Strong Centre Framework.

• GST Implementation: The Goods and Services Tax centralises the tax system, impacting state revenue and autonomy.
• Central Schemes: Increasing reliance on centrally sponsored schemes can dictate state priorities.

These developments reflect ongoing central influence in state affairs.