History, Evaluation And Development Of Federalism
- IJLLR Journal
- Jun 21
- 1 min read
Dr. Arun Shrivastava, Dean, Faculty of Law, Patliputra University, Director, Bihar Institute of Law
Dr. Farhat Jabeen, Assistant Professor, Professor incharge in Bihar Institute of Law, Patna
ABSTRACT
The history of federalism in India is persistently linked to its constitutional framework and the country's diverse socio-political landscape. Unlike traditional federal systems, India's federalism has developed as a unique combination of unitary and federal characteristics, often referred to as "quasi-federal." This paper explores the historical development of Indian federalism, tracing its evolution from colonial times and the Government of India Acts to the framing of the Constitution in 1950. The text discusses the philosophical foundations and practical necessities that shaped India's federal structure, focusing on the Constituent Assembly's efforts to balance central authority with regional autonomy. It highlights significant events such as the linguistic reorganization of states, the Finance Commission's role, and the effects of political centralization during the Emergency period (1975–77). Additionally, it notes how recent trends in coalition politics, economic liberalization, and calls for greater regional empowerment have influenced the dynamics of federalism. The study concludes by evaluating the changing landscape of Indian federalism in the 21st century, emphasizing the persistent tension between centralization and decentralization within the context of a diverse society.
