Examine the role of Article 240 in shaping Union Territory governance. Analyse the constitutional debates triggered by its extension to Chandigarh. Suggest safeguards against federal over-centralisation.
Kartavya Desk Staff
Topic: Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States
Topic: Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States
Q4. Examine the role of Article 240 in shaping Union Territory governance. Analyse the constitutional debates triggered by its extension to Chandigarh. Suggest safeguards against federal over-centralisation. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: IE
Why the question The proposed extension of Article 240 to Chandigarh has triggered a major federal debate on UT governance, historical claims, and Centre–State relations, making it highly relevant for constitutional analysis. Key demand of the question The question requires explaining Article 240’s role in shaping Union Territory governance, analysing the constitutional debates arising from applying it to Chandigarh, and suggesting safeguards to prevent excessive centralisation. Structure of the Answer: Introduction Introduce the constitutional significance of Article 240 and link it to the current Chandigarh controversy to set context. Body Role of Article 240 in UT governance – broadly describe how it grants regulatory power to the President. Constitutional debates over its extension to Chandigarh – mention competing interpretations, historical claims and federal concerns. Safeguards against over-centralisation – suggest consultation frameworks, statutory safeguards and parliamentary oversight. Conclusion Conclude with a forward-looking line emphasising cooperative federalism and balanced Centre–State engagement.
Why the question The proposed extension of Article 240 to Chandigarh has triggered a major federal debate on UT governance, historical claims, and Centre–State relations, making it highly relevant for constitutional analysis.
Key demand of the question The question requires explaining Article 240’s role in shaping Union Territory governance, analysing the constitutional debates arising from applying it to Chandigarh, and suggesting safeguards to prevent excessive centralisation.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction Introduce the constitutional significance of Article 240 and link it to the current Chandigarh controversy to set context.
• Role of Article 240 in UT governance – broadly describe how it grants regulatory power to the President.
• Constitutional debates over its extension to Chandigarh – mention competing interpretations, historical claims and federal concerns.
• Safeguards against over-centralisation – suggest consultation frameworks, statutory safeguards and parliamentary oversight.
Conclusion Conclude with a forward-looking line emphasising cooperative federalism and balanced Centre–State engagement.