Context & The Gist
The article discusses the report submitted by the Kurian Joseph Committee, appointed by the Tamil Nadu government, which examines the increasing trend of centralisation in India and its detrimental effects on federalism. The report argues that a 'structural reset' akin to the 1991 economic reforms is necessary to restore the balance of power between the Centre and the States. This comes amidst concerns over recent actions by the Union government perceived as encroaching upon State autonomy.
Key Arguments & Nuances
- Historical Context: The initial tilt towards centralisation in India’s constitutional framework was influenced by the circumstances surrounding Partition and the integration of princely states.
- Ease of Amendment: The Constitution’s relative ease of amendment contributes to a self-perpetuating cycle of centralisation, allowing the Centre to expand its powers.
- Erosion of State Autonomy: Specific examples like the reorganisation of Jammu and Kashmir, attempts to impose a national language, and the role of Governors demonstrate the Centre’s overreach.
- Fiscal Imbalance: The GST regime is criticised for restructuring the fiscal landscape in favour of the Union, impacting States’ financial autonomy.
- Impending Delimitation: The proposed inter-State delimitation of Lok Sabha constituencies raises concerns about altering the representation of States in national governance.
- Centralisation in Key Sectors: Increasing centralisation in education, health, and election conduct further diminishes State authority.
UPSC Syllabus Relevance
- Polity: Centre-State relations, Constitutional amendments, and the distribution of powers.
- Governance: Issues related to the planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of government policies.
- Economy: Fiscal federalism and the impact of GST on State finances.
Prelims Data Bank
- Constituent Assembly Debates: The Kurian Joseph Committee drew upon these debates to understand the original intent regarding Centre-State relations.
- 42nd Amendment Act, 1976: This amendment significantly altered the federal balance by expanding the Centre’s legislative powers.
- GST (Goods and Services Tax): A comprehensive indirect tax levied on the supply of goods and services.
- Article 370: Revoked in 2019, leading to the reorganisation of Jammu and Kashmir into Union Territories.
Mains Critical Analysis
The Kurian Joseph Committee report highlights a critical juncture in Indian federalism. The increasing centralisation of power poses a significant threat to the country’s diversity and democratic principles. A PESTLE analysis reveals the following:
- Political: The report underscores the political implications of centralisation, including the erosion of State autonomy and the potential for increased conflict between the Centre and States.
- Economic: The GST regime, while intended to streamline taxation, has led to a fiscal imbalance favouring the Centre, impacting States’ ability to fund development programs.
- Social: Attempts to impose a national language disregard India’s linguistic diversity and can lead to social unrest.
- Technological: Centralised control over data and technology can exacerbate inequalities and limit States’ ability to innovate.
- Legal: The ease with which the Constitution can be amended allows for the gradual erosion of federal principles.
- Environmental: Centralised environmental policies may not adequately address the specific ecological challenges faced by different States.
The core issue is the imbalance in the distribution of powers, leading to a weakening of the federal structure envisioned by the Constitution. The implications include reduced State autonomy, diminished responsiveness to local needs, and potential threats to India’s unity. A critical gap lies in the lack of a robust mechanism for resolving Centre-State disputes and ensuring equitable resource allocation.
Value Addition
- Sarkaria Commission (1988): Recommended strengthening State finances and establishing an Inter-State Council.
- Punchhi Commission (2010): Advocated for a clear demarcation of powers between the Centre and States and a more effective dispute resolution mechanism.
- SR Bommai Case (1994): The Supreme Court laid down principles regarding the imposition of President’s Rule in States, safeguarding federal principles.
The Way Forward
- Constitutional Amendments: Consider amendments to make constitutional changes related to federalism more difficult, requiring greater consensus.
- Strengthening Inter-State Council: Revitalise the Inter-State Council as a platform for regular dialogue and dispute resolution.
- Fiscal Devolution: Increase the share of States in central taxes and ensure a more equitable distribution of resources.
- Review of GST: Re-evaluate the GST regime to address concerns about its impact on State finances.
- Respect for Linguistic Diversity: Promote linguistic diversity and refrain from imposing a national language.
- Governor’s Role: Define the role of Governors as non-partisan representatives of the Centre, ensuring they do not act as instruments of political interference.