"Sharing of power between the Union Government and the State Governments is basic to the structure of the Indian Constitution." Analyse the statement with suitable arguments.
Generated by claude-sonnet-4-6 · 2026-06-15 06:58 · grounding rag
Model Answer
The statement is valid and can be analysed through the following arguments:
- Three-tier structure: The Constitution establishes Union, State, and Local Governments, each with separate jurisdictions, making power-sharing fundamental to its design.
- Three-fold distribution of powers: Legislative powers are divided into the Union List, State List, and Concurrent List, clearly defining areas of authority for each government.
- Rigidity of amendment: This power-sharing arrangement cannot be changed by Parliament alone. Any amendment requires a two-thirds majority in both Houses and ratification by at least half the State legislatures.
- Judiciary as guardian: The Supreme Court and High Courts oversee the division of powers and resolve disputes, protecting the federal structure.
Thus, Centre-State power sharing is not merely a feature but the very foundation of the Indian Constitution.
Source: Federalism, What makes India a federal country? — Chapter 2
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Explanation
- Examiners look for 3 distinct points for 3 marks — aim for one point per mark.
- The key evidence from the textbook is the three lists, the rigid amendment procedure, and the role of judiciary — use all three.
- Avoid writing vague general statements; cite specific constitutional provisions (Union List, State List, Concurrent List, two-thirds majority, half the states).
- The phrase "basic to the structure" is the textbook's own wording — always link back to it in your answer.