Question

Consider the following two statements. A) In a federation, the powers of the federal and provincial governments are clearly demarcated. B) India is a federation because the powers of the Union and State Governments are specified in the Constitution and they have exclusive jurisdiction on their respective subjects. C) Sri Lanka is a federation because the country is divided into provinces. D) India is no longer a federation because some powers of the States have been devolved to the local government bodies.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

• A. A, B and C
• B. A, C and D
• C. A and B only
• D. B and C only

Answer 1

The correct option is C

A and B only

The Correct answer is option C – A and B only

• The Indian Union is based on the principles of federalism. The Constitution declared India as a Union of States
• Several princely states joined India, soon after Independence,
• A two-tier system of government was originally provided by the Constitution of India.
• This 2 tier system had the state Government and Central Government, which represented the Union of India.
• Later, in the form of Municipalities and Panchayats, a third tier of federalism was added through Constitutional amendment.
• Separate jurisdiction is enjoyed by these different tiers, just like any other federation.
• The legislative powers between State and Union Governments was clearly divided by the Constitution – thus, it contains three lists: Union List, State List and Concurrent List.
• In Sri Lanka, Tamil leaders want a federal system of government, but Sri Lanka continues to be a Unitary system where the complete powers are concentrated in the hands of the Central Government.