Redefining Federalism: Compact Based on Non-Domination for Cooperative Governance
A new federal compact is needed, prioritizing non-domination for effective governance.
Editorial Analysis
The author argues for a new federal compact in India based on the principle of non-domination. They believe that the current structure, characterized by centralization and the dominance of the Union government, undermines cooperative governance and the autonomy of states. A shift towards genuine federalism, where states have greater autonomy and are treated as equal partners, is essential for India's progress.
Main Arguments:
- The current federal structure in India is characterized by centralization and the dominance of the Union government, which undermines cooperative governance and the autonomy of states.
- A new federal compact must be based on the principle of non-domination, ensuring that no one unit dominates the others.
- Genuine federalism requires decentralizing power and treating states as equal partners, fostering a more cooperative and balanced relationship between the Union and the states.
- The principle of non-domination is essential for India's progress, as it promotes a more inclusive and equitable distribution of power and resources.
Conclusion
Policy Implications
Tamil Nadu's government, following the Rajamannar Committee (1969–71) precedent, has released a report by a High-Level Committee on Union-State Relations, chaired by Justice (retd) Kurian Joseph, advocating for a "structural reset" of Indian federalism. The report highlights a "consistent and troubling pattern of federal imbalance" and suggests concrete proposals to improve the constitutional design, including removing the Centre's power to redraw state boundaries and restoring subjects like education to the states. It also proposes a political reset, including a constitutional code to check the arbitrariness of the governor and rejecting the idea of "One Nation, One Election". The report further examines fiscal reset options for reworking the GST regime and cultural reset proposals to resist linguistic uniformity, though it suggests the uniform imposition of English, which has drawn some criticism.
The report emphasizes that a federation that trusts its states and respects subsidiarity deepens democracy. It argues that unity is sustained by consent and negotiated accommodation, not by command or enforced uniformity. The committee suggests a discussion on the balance of power between Hindi and non-Hindi states, with guarantees of non-imposition of Hindi and a freeze on political representation as it stood in 1971. In return, southern and western states could agree to continue equitable distribution of federal revenues to poorer states.
This call for a new federal compact is relevant for UPSC aspirants as it touches upon critical aspects of Indian polity and governance, particularly Centre-State relations (GS Paper II). The report's recommendations on constitutional amendments, fiscal federalism, and the role of the Governor are pertinent for understanding the evolving dynamics of Indian federalism.
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper II: Indian Polity - Centre-State Relations, Constitutional Amendments, Role of Governor
Connects to the syllabus topics of Federalism, Devolution of Powers and Finances up to local levels
Potential question types: Analytical questions on challenges to cooperative federalism, critical evaluation of the role of Governor, descriptive questions on the recommendations of various committees on Centre-State relations
In Simple Words
The article talks about how India's central government sometimes has too much power compared to the states. It suggests a new agreement where states have more say and are treated as equal partners, so no one dominates.
India Angle
In India, this means states could have more control over their resources and make decisions that better suit their local needs. This could affect everything from local businesses to education and healthcare policies.
For Instance
Think of it like a family where one person always makes all the decisions. A better system would be where everyone gets a voice and decisions are made together, considering everyone's needs.
This matters because it can lead to fairer distribution of resources and policies that better reflect the needs of different regions, improving the lives of people across the country.
Fairness in power-sharing between the central government and states can lead to better governance and a stronger India.
The article discusses the need for a new federal compact in India based on the principle of non-domination. It argues that the current structure, characterized by centralization and the dominance of the Union government, undermines cooperative governance and the autonomy of states.
The author suggests that a shift towards genuine federalism, where states have greater autonomy and are treated as equal partners, is essential for India's progress. This would involve decentralizing power, promoting fiscal federalism, and fostering a culture of mutual respect and cooperation between the Union and the states.
Expert Analysis
To fully grasp the nuances of the debate around redefining Indian federalism, several key concepts need to be understood.
The Rajamannar Committee (1969-1971), officially known as the Centre-State Relations Inquiry Committee, was established by the Tamil Nadu Government. It was the first state-appointed body to systematically examine Indian federalism and recommend reforms to ensure maximum State autonomy without harming national unity. Its recommendations, though not directly implemented, initiated serious federal debate and strengthened the intellectual foundation of cooperative federalism. The current report from Tamil Nadu builds upon the Rajamannar Committee's legacy by again raising crucial questions about the balance of power between the Union and the States.
Article 200 of the Indian Constitution empowers the Governor to assent to, withhold bills passed by the State legislature, or reserve them for the President’s consideration. However, the Constitution does not specify a time limit for the Governor to act, leading to delays and political tensions, as highlighted in the NALSAR survey. The current debate around redefining federalism includes calls for a constitutional amendment to address this loophole and ensure timely action on state bills.
Cooperative Federalism is a concept where the Union and the States cooperate and coordinate in the governance of the country. Granville Austin described it as a structure involving “a strong central, or general government, yet it does not necessarily result in weak provincial governments that are largely administrative agencies for central policies.” The current report from Tamil Nadu advocates for a return to the principles of cooperative federalism, where States are treated as equal partners and their autonomy is respected.
Article 356 of the Indian Constitution, which deals with President's Rule, allows the Union government to take control of a state government under certain conditions. The Rajamannar Committee had recommended its deletion or strict limitation to prevent arbitrary dismissal of State governments. The misuse of Article 356 has historically been a point of contention in Centre-State relations, and debates around redefining federalism often include discussions on limiting its application.
For UPSC aspirants, understanding these concepts is crucial for both Prelims and Mains. Questions can be framed on the historical evolution of Centre-State relations, the constitutional provisions governing federalism, and the recommendations of various committees and commissions. Mains questions can focus on the challenges to cooperative federalism and the need for reforms to strengthen State autonomy.
More Information
Background
Latest Developments
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the Rajamannar Committee: 1. It was appointed by the Union Government to review Centre-State relations. 2. It recommended the deletion of Article 356 from the Constitution. 3. It advocated for greater financial autonomy for states. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: B
Statement 1 is INCORRECT: The Rajamannar Committee was appointed by the Tamil Nadu Government in 1969, not the Union Government. Statement 2 is CORRECT: The Committee recommended the deletion or strict limitation of Article 356 to prevent arbitrary dismissal of State governments. Statement 3 is CORRECT: The Committee advocated for larger tax devolution to States and a stronger role for the Finance Commission to ensure greater financial autonomy.
Source Articles
Yogendra Yadav writes: India’s new federal compact must be based on principle of non-domination | The Indian Express
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About the Author
Ritu SinghEngineer & Current Affairs Analyst
Ritu Singh writes about Polity & Governance at GKSolver, breaking down complex developments into clear, exam-relevant analysis.
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