Question

The model of 'Quasi Federal' form of government in Indian constitution is borrowed from which country?

• A. Germany
• B. Canada
• C. United Kingdom
• D. Australia

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Canada

Quasi-Federal Nature of Indian Constitution

The Indian Constitution establishes a system that is often described as 'quasi-federal' or 'federal in spirit but unitary in disposition'. This unique model has been largely inspired by the Constitution of Canada.

Key Features Borrowed from Canada:

• Vesting of Residual Powers: In India, like in Canada, any power not specifically assigned to either the Union or the State governments in the legislative lists is vested in the Union Parliament. This strengthens the central government's authority.

• Appointment of Governors: The system of appointing Governors of states by the President (acting on the advice of the Union government) is also a feature drawn from the Canadian model, where the federal government appoints Lieutenant-Governors in the provinces.

• Distribution of Powers: While India has a three-list system (Union List, State List, Concurrent List), the overall framework of distributing powers with a strong bias towards the Centre reflects the Canadian federal structure.

Distinction from other Federal Models:

• Unlike the United States, where residual powers are vested in the states, India follows the Canadian precedent.

• The Indian model is also different from the traditional federalism of countries like Australia or Switzerland, where the balance of power might be more evenly distributed or have different mechanisms for resolving disputes.