The Indian Constitution, while establishing a federal structure, has a distinct unitary bias, leading to recurrent tensions between the Centre and the states. These tensions arise from various factors, including:
Key Areas of Tension
The Role of the Governor:
- Article 356: The power of the President to impose President's Rule in states has been a contentious issue. Its misuse can lead to political instability and erosion of state autonomy.
- Interference in State Administration: Governors, appointed by the central government, often intervene in state government affairs, leading to friction.
Fiscal Federalism:
- GST Regime: The implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) has impacted the fiscal autonomy of states. Disputes over revenue sharing and compensation cess have strained Centre-state relations.
- Conditional Grants: The Centre often ties grants to specific conditions, limiting the states' fiscal flexibility and their ability to address local needs.
Central Overreach:
- Central Agencies: The use of central agencies like the CBI and ED for political purposes has often led to accusations of political interference and misuse of power.
- Encroachment on State Subjects: The Centre's increasing role in areas traditionally under state jurisdiction, such as education and health, has caused discontent among states.
Inter-State Disputes:
- Water-sharing disputes, boundary disputes, and other inter-state conflicts often require central intervention, which can lead to tensions.
The Need for Cooperative Federalism
To address these tensions and ensure smooth functioning of the federal system, it is essential to adhere to the principles of cooperative federalism. This involves:
- Mutual Respect: Both the Centre and the states must respect each other's constitutional roles and responsibilities.
- Effective Communication: Regular dialogue and consultation between the Centre and the states can help resolve disputes and build trust.
- Financial Decentralization: A fair and equitable distribution of resources between the Centre and the states is crucial for balanced development.
- Judicial Intervention: The judiciary plays a vital role in adjudicating disputes between the Centre and the states and upholding the federal balance.
By fostering a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect, the Centre and the states can work together to address common challenges and build a stronger and more prosperous India.