Federalism: A Historical and Contemporary Overhaul

ABSTRACT

“Federalism is the keystone of the arch on which rests the whole fabric of our Constitution,” Dr. B.R. Ambedkar stressed during the deliberations in the Constituent Assembly. Federalism has become a divisive topic in India in recent years, with opponents claiming that programs like “One Nation, One Election” compromise this fundamental idea. The national government has been accused of going too far in interfering politically and economically by a number of state governments, notably those in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and West Bengal. The stability of India’s federal system is called into question by disputes over the implementation of numerous Acts and conflicts between state police and national agencies. This Paper examines the history and foundations of federalism in the US and India, the reasons behind India’s federal structure adoption, and the main distinctions between the two systems. The main query is also addressed: Is Indian federalism in jeopardy, and is the center going too far in its interactions with the states? This paper lastly put forward solutions to safeguard the federal structure.