In recent years, the relationship between the Indian Central government and State governments has become increasingly strained. This is due to the variety of factors, including disputes over resource allocation, the role of governors, and the overreach of Central agencies into State matters. This grouse is more where State governments are run by the different political parties who are not in league with the ruling political party at the Centre.
Key Areas of Strained Relationship between Central and State Govts:
- Resource Allocation
Disputes over the allocation of funds, taxes, and other benefits have become increasingly frequent. This includes issues like GST revenue sharing and allocation of funds for social welfare programs.
- Legislative conflicts
The Central government has been accused of overstepping its boundaries and encroaching on State matters, leading to legal challenges.
- Role of Governors
The role of governors, who are appointed by the Central government and are supposed to represent the Centre in the States, has become a point of contention, with some governors being accused of taking political sides.
- Central Agency Overreach
Central Agencies like the CBI, NIA and ED have been accused of overreacting in State matters, leading to friction and mistrust.
- Water Disputes
Disputes over water resources between States often involve the Central government, and these disputes can further strain relations.
- Policy Resistance
States have resisted certain Central government policies, further increasing tensions.
- Misuse of Article 356 (President’s Rule)
The use of Article 356,which allows for the imposition of Central rule in States has also raised concerns about the potential for misuse and impact on State autonomy.
Impact of Deteriorating Relations:
- Weakening of Cooperative Federalism
The increasing disputes are eroding the principles of cooperative federalism, where the Centre and States are supposed to work together.
- Impact on Governance
The lack of cooperation can negatively impact governance and development efforts at both State and national level.
- Economic Implications
Conflicts over resource allocation and taxation can have economic implications, including potential for reduced investment and slower economic growth.
- Social and Political Instability
The growing tensions can lead to social and political instability, particularly in States where there is perceived lack of respect for State autonomy.
Examples of Recent Conflicts
- Tamil Nadu’s Opposition to NEET
Tamil Nadu has opposed the Central government’s implementation of National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) for medical admissions, arguing that it infringes on State autonomy.
- National Educational Policy
Most of the States which are governed by non BJP parties have opposed the new national Education policy, because these parties fear that this new policy will lead to saffronisation of the education.
How These Challenges Can be Addressed?
- Strengthening Cooperative Federalism
Efforts are needed from both The Centre and States to foster a more cooperative and collaborative relationship.
- Ensuring Fiscal Autonomy
States need to have great fiscal autonomy to effectively implement policies and provide services to citizens.
- Promoting Dialogue and Negotiation
Mechanisms for dialogue and negotiation between the Centre and States are essential to resolve disputes and find common ground.
- Protecting State Autonomy
The Centre needs to respect the autonomy of States and refrain from overreaching or interfering in the Sate matters.
- Addressing Governance Issues
The issues of corruption, and ineffective governance at both the Centre and State levels is crucial for ensuring good governance and development.
The above mentioned points are all for ideal governance. In reality, the facts are far from ideal. As in the last 78 years of India’s existence as democratic nation, the majority of the times country was ruled by the Congress block, and they set some precedence of governance which was then followed by both the Central and State governments. But when in 2014 BJP led government at the Centre came in to power, the policies and style of governance set by the Congress which were deteriorating then at very fast rate ,started taking the corrective path, and this was not liked by the Congress and its allied political parties. They started opposing all the decisions/laws passed by the BJP government. These parties opposed GST, Article 370 removal, National citizen act, new education policy and many more. This led to the States which were ruling by Congress and its allied parties started non cooperating with Centre and this was also one of the main cause of deteriorating relations between Centre and States.
Unless all the political parties whether at the Centre or States behave and act in the manner which is going to benefit the citizens, then only the relations will improve. Just to oppose for hack of opposing because the Centre is ruled by the political party which is not in league with your party at the State, will not going to solve this relationship problems.
Only time will tell, when the relationship between The Centre and States will improve in India?
Waiting for your views on this blog.
Anil Malik
Mumbai, India
3rd June 2025