Question

Explain the arguments given in favour of strong Centre in the Constituent Assembly. 

Answer 1

On August 15, 1947, India attained independence and was divided into Pakistan and India. The Constituent Assembly did not publicly declare its support for a strong central government before the Partition. Still, after the declaration of Partition on June 3, 1947, the Constituent Assembly perceived itself as free from all political and Cabinet Mission-imposed restraints.

1. Dr B.R. Ambedkar and Jawaharlal Nehru supported a strong central government for India. They discussed the riots and violent incidents they feared would cause the country to break up and claimed that only a strong central government could end intercommunal conflict. Upon observing the size of the country, Balakrishna Sharma asserted that only a powerful central government could make plans for the country's welfare.
2. Only an intense centre could ensure effective management, which would help mobilise financial resources.
3. Balakrishna Sharma, a member of the United Provinces, supported a strong centre by arguing that only a strong centre could plan for the country's welfare, mobilise the available economic resources, set up a suitable administration, and defend the nation against foreign aggression.