Question

What are the demerits of federal form government?

Discuss the demerits of federation.

Explain the four possible demerits of a federation.

Answer 1

Demerits of the federal form of government are:

1. The federal government is weaker when compared to the unitary government.
2. The federal government is more expensive.
3. Provincial tendencies are very common
4. Lack of uniformity in Administration
5. Threat to national unity
6. Distribution powers between center and states lead to conflict
7. Double Citizenship
8. The rigid constitution cannot be amended easily for the changing needs.
9. The state governments sometimes place hindrances in foreign policy.

Answer 2

1. Division of Powers Causes Weakness: The separation of powers between the center and the states can create difficulties for both. The central government may struggle to implement its policies without full support from the states, and states may feel burdened by interference from the center.
2. Center-State Conflicts: The division of authority often leads to disputes and deadlocks between the center and the states, consuming much of their energy in resolving jurisdictional issues.
3. Destruction of Responsibility: Shared powers may lead to a blame game between the center and states, with each side avoiding responsibility for failures.
4. Rigidity of the Constitution: The amendment process in a federation is complex and difficult. This inflexibility can hinder the timely resolution of important issues.
5. Expensive and Complex System: Federation involves multiple layers of government with separate legislatures, executives, and judiciaries, making the system costlier and more complicated.
6. Rise of Regionalism and Parochialism: Federation may encourage states to focus on local interests, sometimes in conflict with national objectives, leading to unhealthy competition and even disintegration tendencies.
7. Secessionist Forces and Threats to National Unity: Regional loyalties and cultural and linguistic differences may lead to demands for separation or more autonomy, posing a risk to the integrity of the federation, especially in its early years.