Tamil Nadu Forms Committee to Revisit Centre-State Relations

The Tamil Nadu government has established a high-level committee to examine the dynamics of Centre-State relations and suggest ways to strengthen the constitutional rights of Indian states.

1. The committee is headed by Justice Kurian Joseph, former judge of the Supreme Court of India.
2. Its primary task is to propose measures that reinforce federal balance and empower states within the framework of the Indian Constitution.

Historical Reference: Rajamannar Committee (1969)

1. Constituted by the DMK government in Tamil Nadu, this was the first state-appointed committee to examine Centre-State relations.
2. Objective: To review the Constitution and recommend greater autonomy for states in legislative, executive, and judicial domains.

Key Findings of Rajamannar Committee:

1. Criticized Article 365, calling it a tool for excessive central interference.
2. Strongly recommended repealing Article 356 to prevent misuse of President’s Rule.
3. Advocated for strengthening the Inter-State Council under Article 263 to facilitate cooperative federalism.
4. Expressed concern over the limited role of the Finance Commission in ensuring fiscal federalism.

Other Key Committees on Centre-State Relations

Sarkaria Commission (1983)

Set up by the Union Government to analyze Centre-State relations and recommend ways to improve cooperation.

Notable Recommendations:

1. Opposed abolishing All-India Services, citing their role in maintaining national unity.
2. Stated that President’s Rule (Article 356) should only be used as a last resort.
3. Urged that active politicians should not be appointed as Governors, to preserve neutrality.
4. Emphasized genuine implementation of the three-language formula in all states to promote linguistic harmony.

Punchhi Commission (2007)

Formed to revisit Centre-State dynamics in light of changing socio-political realities.

Major Recommendations:

1. Suggested the creation of a formal impeachment process for Governors, similar to the President’s under Article 61.
2. Recommended that the Centre consult States while making laws on subjects in the Concurrent List.
3. Called for restrained use of Article 356, discouraging its blanket application.