Adv. Shubhada Joshi, LL.M., Deccan Education Society’s Shri. Navalmal Firodia Law College, Savitribai Phule Pune University
ABSTRACT
“Federalism in India: Division of power – Strengthening the system” Federalism in India has a rich and complex history, interconnected with the country’s struggle for independence and its journey as a democratic republic. Before independence, the country was a cluster of princely states, British provinces, and territories under direct British rule. With independence, India adopted a federal system of government under the Government of India Act 1935, which served as the basis for the Constitution of India. In current state India’s federal structure continues to evolve, with ongoing debates and negotiations over the distribution of powers, fiscal federalism, and center- state relations. Federalism in India means that power is divided between the central government and state governments. This split is influenced by many factors like the diverse cultures, languages, needs of different regions across the nation, socio-economic considerations and the dynamics of Indian politics. Federalism in India is always changing to fit the needs of the people and ensure everyone’s voice is heard in the democracy but there is no balance of power between the central government and state governments. In India historical and socio-political factors, the cultural, religious, and philosophical differences etc influence the interpretation and implementation of federalism. “Contrary to the intended federal structure, center-state relations in India often exhibit asymmetrical power dynamics.” By addressing asymmetrical power dynamics and promoting a more inclusive approach to governance there is a need of developing a framework promoting and managing transparent communication channels and structured dialogue between the central government and state administrations, fostering consensus-building and equitable decision-making processes. The researcher has undertaken the topic to study how constitutional interpretations, judicial decisions, and administrative reforms contribute to shaping the current status and future prospects of federalism in India? What are the alternatives available for strengthening federalism in India, fostering greater cooperation between the center and states?
Keywords: Asymmetrical Power Dynamics, Centralization, Decentralization, Federalism, Inclusive Governance, Intergovernmental Cooperation, Power Distribution
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