What is the nature of the Indian Constitution?

Correct answer: (d) Federal in nature but unitary in spirit

Explanation

Constitutional experts generally classify constitutions into two main types—(i) Federal and (ii) Unitary. A unitary constitution is one in which all powers are vested in a single government, usually the central government. In such a system, provinces/states remain subordinate to the centre. In contrast, a federal constitution divides powers between the Centre and the States, and both governments function independently within their respective spheres. There has been considerable difference of opinion among jurists regarding the nature of the Indian Constitution. According to the Constitution-makers, it is federal; however, Prof. Jennings objected to calling it fully federal. Prof. K.C. Wheare described it as a quasi-federal constitution, or as a unitary constitution with federal features playing a supporting role. Jennings also pointed out a strong tendency towards centralization in the Indian Constitution. Therefore, from the above analysis, we can say that the Indian Constitution is neither purely federal nor purely unitary; rather, it is federal in structure but unitary in spirit.