Question

Indian Constitution is federal. Discuss.

Answer 1

Answer: The Constitution of India defines the nation as a ‘Union’ and not a ‘Federation’. However, it has some federal characteristics.

1. The three organs of democracy are defined. The legislature makes the laws for the nation. The executive implements those laws. It also maintains the law and order. In case of any dispute or conflict, the judiciary gives verdicts based on those laws.

2. The power is distributed in a three-tier system. The union government, the state government and the local self-government serve the people with different purposes.

3. The judiciary is independent and impartial. It never discriminates and disposes of bad laws, when needed. It is a hierarchical organisation. The supreme court gives the final verdict in all cases. The high courts and district courts are there in place for the states and districts respectively.

4. There is a bicameral legislature in the centre. The upper house takes care of the interests of the states. While the lower house takes care of the interests of the people.

Thus, all the characteristics have been included in the Indian constitution. Hence, Indian Constitution is federal.