PAPER ID: IJIM/Vol. 8 (VII) November 2023/16-20/3

AUTHOR: Radhaswamy K P

TITLE: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF FEDERALISM ISSUES IN INDIA THAT STRUCTURE AND CHALLENGES

ABSTRACT: This paper aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of Indian federalism, both in general and in the contemporary era. It covers various issues that have been frequently discussed in recent times. There is a widespread debate surrounding the federalist aspect, questioning whether the federal government in India is suitable or not. Additionally, great importance is placed on the constitutional norms and the fundamental objectives of federalism. In the federal system, both the central government and the state governments are considered equal partners. They are committed to the principles of ‘self-rule’ and ‘share-rule’. However, there have been numerous controversies and contradictions due to the uncertain nature of our federal working system. Recently, there has been a growing trend to focus on the key concerns of federalism. These discussions have been ongoing for over seven decades. The federal system has been subject to criticism, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses. Moreover, certain trends have emerged that disrupt the balance of power and the cooperative nature of Indian federalism. For example, the political developments surrounding the Citizenship Amendment Act, 2019, and other related issues have sparked intense debates on the understanding of federalism. Furthermore, there is tension between the Union and the states regarding the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). States like Kerala, Punjab, Rajasthan, and West Bengal argue that Indian federalism has become more competitive than cooperative over time. On the other hand, interstate river disputes, the demand for new states, the impact of Covid-19 on Indian federalism, and other factors have further complicated the center-state relations. This paper presents various recommendations and potential suggestions to support India’s federal system. It is now imperative for India and its citizens to reevaluate the federal concepts in order to address the challenges and maintain a harmonious balance between the central and state governments, as well as inter-state relations.   

KEYWORDS: Federalism, State relations, Indian constitution,partnership, Federation, Governmental capacity

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