The definition and features of federal system.

by - February 19, 2022

What is the federal system ? Discuss the features of the federal system .




The concept and definition of the federal system :- 


In the context of the concept of federal governance, K.C. Wheare said the federal government  refers to the distribution of power between the central government and the state governments. According to the system of distribution of power, each government is independent and distinct in its own field.

A.V. Dicey said the federal system is a kind of political system in which the powers and rights of the states are combined with national unity and power.

In the federal system, power and authority are divided between the central and regional governments, Finer said.

Among the definitions given by political scientists, however, the one given by Birch is considered to be the best definition of the federal government. About the federal system of government, he said, the federal system of government is a system of government where power is divided between a general government or the central government and some regional governments in such a way that they complement each other and each of them governs the people through their representatives.


Features of the federal system of government: -

Characteristics of the Federal Government: -


1. Presence of Central Government and State Government: - The existence of a Coalition Government can be mentioned here as the main feature of the Federal Government. Since there are two types of government in the federal system , this type of government is called a "dual system of government". On the one hand a general or central government is established at the center and on the other hand different state governments are formed for each state. The function of the central government is to establish national solidarity and unity and to play its role in fulfilling the national interest. On the other hand, the state governments are concerned about regional interests, demands, etc.

2. Central tendency: - Although there is a joint government system in the federal system, the central tendency is a significant feature of it. Since every state has a different diversity of culture, politics, language, etc., everyone has to depend on the center for the fulfillment of national interests and demands for defense. This created a centralized tendency in the federal system to protect national and regional interests, defense, international relations, and so on. In the federal system, both the central government and the state government are independent, but the central tendency of the state government is observed on various issues.


3. Dominance of the Constitution: - Dominance of the Constitution is observed in the federal system. The supremacy of the constitution means that the constitution is the supreme law and the source of all power in that country. All powers are decentralized or distributed through the constitution. It is not possible for the central government, regional government or any other political body to violate the constitution. Everyone has to work under the constitution. The constitution also provides for the prevention of abuse of power by governments. Thus, in the federal system , the constitution is the main source of power and the supremacy of the constitution is unquestionable.

4. Decentralization of power: - Decentralization of power occurs in the federal system. Power is not confined to a single government like a unitary government but is devolved to different state governments and local autonomous bodies. As a result, there is an opportunity to increase administrative excellence through decentralization of power and more opportunities to meet the expectations of the people.

5. Preservation of regional distinctions: - Regional distinctions are preserved within the federal system . A federal government is usually established in countries with large populations. Large populations and large countries are generally diverse in terms of language, culture, economy, politics, etc., and regional governments can play their due role in meeting these diverse demands and interests. On the other hand, the central government can properly manage the issue of national unity and security. Thus, both regional and national interests and individual interests are protected .

6. Presence of written constitution: - The constitution is usually written in all the states where the federal system is prevalent. Because of the presence of different governments in such a system of governance, such as the central government, the state government, the local autonomous bodies, etc., the presence of different government authorities necessitates a written constitution. It is possible to implement through a written constitution instructions to play an appropriate role through a specific distribution of power. Therefore, the Constitution of the federal government is generally written and power is divided between the Central and State Governments and various institutions through the Constitution.


7. Difficult to change the constitution: - The federal constitution is usually difficult to change. Since the sole power of the central government is not recognized here - here the central and state governments run the state jointly. So the federal constitution is immutable. So that no government can change the constitution as they wish. The constitution has to be changed with the consent of both types of government.

8. Dual citizenship: - Dual citizenship is observed in the federal system. Dual citizenship is - on the one hand the person is a citizen of the nation and on the other hand the person is a citizen of the state. Dual citizenship is recognized in almost every federal system. That is, the person is a citizen of the nation on the one hand and a citizen of the state in which he resides on the other. However, it should be noted that although the federal system is recognized in India, dual citizenship is not recognized here.

9. Bicameral legislature: - Under federal rule, the legislature is usually bicameral. These two houses are the lower house and the upper house. In the lower house the directly elected representatives get seats and in the upper house the representative members get the opportunity. These two chambers play an important role in the enactment of laws and the role of both the State Legislature and the Central Legislative Assembly in enacting laws on different issues is important here.

10. Federal Courts: - The existence of federal courts in the federal system is obvious. It can be said that it is not possible to have a federal system of government without a federal court system. Because, since different types of government exist here, it is very normal for different governments to start opposing on different issues. The judiciary acts as an impartial authority to resolve disputes between one or more state governments, the central government and the state government. Federal courts can also judge the validity of various laws, orders, etc. issued by the legislature. The federal court also has an important role to play in interpreting the constitution.

11. Individual Revenue System: - In the federal system of government, the revenue system is usually separate. Here both governments are quite financially compatible. Because it is not possible for any central or state government to run the government if it is not financially sound enough. That is why every government has its own revenue system.

12. Individual Constitution: - The existence of a separate constitution can be mentioned in the conventional federal system. For example, different states in the United States have different and distinct constitutions. However, every constitution of the state has to be in line with the national constitution. However, it is important to note that although the federal system is recognized in India, there is no recognition or existence of separate constitutions for the states. 


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