Lecture on Federalism and Government Systems

Introduction to Federalism

• Federalism is a system where governmental power is divided between a central authority and its constituent units.
• Federal vs. Unitary Systems:
  • Federal System: Divides power between central and state governments. Example: India.
  • Unitary System: Central government holds primary power, with subunits directly subordinate. Example: Sri Lanka, UK.

Features of Federalism

• Each tier (level) of government has jurisdiction over certain legislative and administrative matters.
• Jurisdiction can be defined by geographical area or subject matter.
• Provides constitutional guarantees for authority of each tier.
• Changes in constitution require approval from multiple tiers.
• Independent judiciary is critical, serving as an arbitrator in disputes.
• Objectives: Promote unity while recognizing regional diversity.

Types of Federations

• Coming Together Federations:
  • Independent states voluntarily form a larger unit.
  • Examples: USA, Switzerland, Austria.
  • States have equal power; federal government is less powerful.
• Holding Together Federations:
  • Central government divides power among states.
  • Examples: India, Spain, Belgium.
  • Central government is more powerful.

Federalism in India

• Structure:
  • Union of states with a three-tier system: Union, State, and Local governments.
  • Power sharing varies; some states have more autonomy (e.g., Jammu and Kashmir).
• Quasi-Federal Nature:
  • Unique power-sharing arrangements.
  • Unequal power distribution among states and union territories.

Legislative Powers

• Three-fold distribution of power: Union, State, and Concurrent lists.
• Union List: National importance subjects; laws made by Parliament.
• State List: State/local importance subjects; laws made by state legislatures.
• Concurrent List: Common interest subjects; both can legislate, Union laws prevail in conflicts.
• Residuary Subjects: Not listed; Union government legislates.

Judiciary in Federalism

• Acts as a guardian of federalism.
• Resolves disputes on power division.
• High Courts and Supreme Court play a key role.

Success of Federalism in India

• Based on democratic politics, unity in diversity.
• Linguistic States:
  • Reorganization based on language in 1956.
  • Led to administrative unity and recognition of cultural identities.
• Language Policy:
  • Constitution recognizes 22 scheduled languages.
  • English remains an associate official language.

Center-State Relations

• Evolved from a single-party dominance to coalition governments.
• Political changes led to respect for state autonomy.
• Supreme Court limits arbitrary dismissal of state governments.

Decentralization and Local Government

• Decentralization: Transfer of power to local governments.
• Panchayati Raj System: Three-tier local government structure in rural areas.
  • Gram Panchayat: Village level.
  • Panchayat Samiti: Block level.
  • Zilla Parishad: District level.
• Urban Local Government: Municipal committees and corporations.

Challenges and Achievements

• Issues with regular functioning of local bodies.
• 36 lakh representatives; significant female participation.
• Despite challenges, decentralization strengthens democracy.

These notes provide a comprehensive overview of federalism, particularly focusing on its application and structure within India, exploring its challenges, achievements, and evolving nature over time.