Subject: Polity
The federal system in India has been both lauded and critiqued. On one hand, it accommodates regional diversity and promotes decentralization by granting autonomy to states in several areas of governance. On the other hand, critics argue that the system suffers from central overreach, particularly through emergency provisions and the power of Parliament to reorganize state boundaries without state consent.
Additionally, the dual nature of the Indian system—combining federal and unitary features—can lead to ambiguities and conflicts between the Centre and the States. The rigid division of subjects in the legislative lists and the complexities of financial allocation further complicate the effective functioning of federalism.
Overall, while the federal system has played a crucial role in managing India’s diversity, continuous reforms and judicial oversight are necessary to address its inherent challenges and to ensure a more balanced distribution of power.