Question

Explain the distribution of powers between the Centre and the States, as debated in the Constituent Assembly, highlighting differing viewpoints and concerns.

Answer 1

1. The issue of the division of power of the government at the centre and at the state level was intensely debated.
2. The draft constitution provided three lists of subjects, i.e., Union List - Union Government can make laws on it. State List - State Government can make laws on it and Concurrent List - Both Union and State government can make laws on listed items.
3. More items are listed in the Union list.
4. In India-Union government is made more powerful so that it can ensure peace, security, and can coordinate on the matter of vital interest and to speak for whole country in the international sphere.
5. K. Santhanam said reallocation of power was necessary, not only to strengthen the state but also the centre.
6. He said if the centre is overburdened with responsibility, it could not function properly. So it is important that some powers to the state be transferred.
7. He said states should be given appropriate fiscal provision so that they can work independently, and they do not need to depend on the centre for even nominal expenditure.
8. The need for strong government had been further reinforced by the events of partition. Many leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, BR Ambedkar, Gopalaswami Ayyangar, etc. advocated for a strong centre.
9. Balakrishna Sharma, a member from the United Provinces, argued extensively that only a strong centre could effectively plan for national welfare, mobilise economic resources, establish efficient administration, and defend against foreign threats.
10. The Constitution exhibited a clear inclination towards the rights of the Union of India over those of its constituent states, reflecting a shift in priorities driven by the time.