Question

What are the unitarian features of India as a federal state?

Answer 1

1. Strong Center: The central government holds more powers than the states, especially in areas like defense, foreign affairs, and communication.
2. Single Constitution: India has one single constitution for both the Union and the states (except Jammu and Kashmir earlier under Article 370).
3. Single Citizenship: All Indians are citizens of India only, not of individual states, unlike in some federations.
4. Unequal Representation in Rajya Sabha: States are not equally represented in the Upper House; representation is based on population, favoring larger states.
5. Union's Power to Change State Boundaries: The Parliament has the authority to create new states or alter the boundaries of existing ones without the consent of the affected states (Article 3).
6. Emergency Provisions: During national, state, or financial emergencies, the central government can assume greater control over the states, converting the system effectively into a unitary one.
7. Governor Appointed by the Center: The Governor, who is the head of the state, is appointed by the President and often acts as a representative of the central government.
8. Integrated Judiciary: India has a single, unified judicial system headed by the Supreme Court, unlike true federations where states have separate courts.