Democracy, Centralization, and the Crisis of Cooperative Federalism in India
M. Jeyabrabha
Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Periyar Arts College, Cuddalore, Affiliated with Annamalai University
The distinctive nature of Indian federalism, which departs from classical federal models by embedding a “quasi-federal” structure that emphasizes central authority over state autonomy is analysed in this study. Drawing from constitutional provisions such as Articles 3, 356, and 280, the study explores the legal and political architecture that underpins Union–State relations in India. It argues that while the Constitution provides a federal framework through a division of powers across Union, State, and Concurrent Lists, it simultaneously equips the Centre with overriding powers that weaken genuine state sovereignty. The paper highlights key mechanisms of central dominance—such as the role of Governors, fiscal centralization, emergency provisions, and residuary powers—while also examining the countervailing force of political federalism manifested through regional parties, coalition politics, and institutional bodies like the Inter-State Council and GST Council. Special attention is given to the misuse of Article 356 and the evolving challenges posed by regionalism, identity politics, and fiscal asymmetries. Through a nuanced discussion of legal texts, landmark judgments, and political developments, the study reveals that India’s federal structure functions within a dynamic tension between constitutional design and political practice, with democratic accountability and institutional cooperation being essential to preserving the federal spirit in a diverse polity.
Keywords: Quasi-federalism, Indian Constitution, central authority, state autonomy, Article 356, fiscal federalism, regionalism, democratic accountability.
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