Over the years, several amendments to the Indian Constitution have significantly impacted the Union-State relationship, with the balance of power between the Union and states evolving. Some amendments have reinforced the powers of the Union, while others have aimed at enhancing the autonomy of states. Here are a few important amendments affecting Union-State relations: 1….
Category: political-philosophy
Constitutional mechanisms for resolution of inter-state conflicts
Inter-state conflicts in India arise from various issues such as water sharing, territorial disputes, and differing political or economic interests between states. The Indian Constitution provides several mechanisms to resolve these conflicts, with an emphasis on maintaining national unity and harmony while respecting the autonomy of states. Some of the key constitutional provisions and mechanisms…
The response of the nationalists to religious diversity and communalism
The Indian nationalist movement, particularly during the British colonial period, was deeply engaged with issues of religious diversity and communalism. The response of the nationalists to these issues was complex and evolved over time. Nationalists sought to create a unified, independent India, but religious diversity presented a significant challenge. The nationalists’ response to religious diversity…
State politics has emerged as an autonomous activity from being a subsidiary of the national politics
State politics in India has evolved significantly, particularly after the 1970s, from being a subsidiary of national politics to becoming an autonomous and more assertive sphere of political activity. This transformation is deeply rooted in the historical, social, economic, and political dynamics of the country, which have contributed to the rise of regional parties, the…
Development means different things to different people
Development is a complex, multifaceted concept that has different meanings depending on the perspective from which it is viewed. The idea of development has evolved significantly over time, and its definition varies across different disciplines, contexts, and societal needs. At its core, development refers to processes that improve the quality of life, enhance well-being, and…
Bhoodan Movement
The Bhoodan Movement, or the Land Gift Movement, was a voluntary land reform initiative launched by the social activist Vinoba Bhave in 1951, with the aim of promoting land redistribution and social equality in post-independence India. Bhave, a disciple of Mahatma Gandhi, sought to solve the issue of landlessness among the rural poor by encouraging…
Impact of Privatisation on the Working Class in India
Privatization in India refers to the process of transferring ownership and control of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) to private individuals or companies. It began in the early 1990s as part of economic reforms aimed at liberalizing the Indian economy. The process of privatization has significantly impacted the working class, both positively and negatively, with varying outcomes…
Pattern of communal politics in contemporary India
Communal politics in contemporary India has evolved into a significant and often divisive force in the country’s political and social landscape. The term “communalism” refers to the exploitation of religious identities for political purposes, where the politics of a particular community is promoted at the expense of others. In India, this phenomenon primarily involves religious…
Election Commission
The Election Commission of India (ECI) is a constitutional body tasked with conducting free and fair elections in the country. Established under Article 324 of the Indian Constitution, the ECI plays a pivotal role in ensuring the democratic functioning of the Republic of India. Structure and Composition Initially, the Election Commission was a single-member body,…
Autonomy Movements
Autonomy movements in India represent the demands by various regions, ethnic groups, and communities for greater self-rule or independence from central authority. These movements often arise from perceptions of political neglect, cultural alienation, economic exploitation, or a desire to preserve ethnic and linguistic identity. Historical Context and Roots India’s federal structure accommodates a significant degree…
Ethnic minorities in the country
India is a multi-ethnic, multi-religious, and multi-lingual country, home to a wide array of ethnic minorities. These ethnic groups contribute to the country’s rich cultural diversity, but they also face distinct social, political, and economic challenges. Understanding the position of ethnic minorities in India requires acknowledging both their contributions to the national fabric and the…
Different forms of Dalit assertion since the 1980s
Dalit assertion, especially since the 1980s, has played a crucial role in reshaping India’s social and political landscape. Dalits, who have historically been marginalized and oppressed under the rigid caste system, began to challenge their subordination through various forms of political, social, and cultural assertion. This assertion has taken different shapes over the years, from…