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Articles 256 to 263 of the Indian Constitution aim to regulate administrative relations between the Union and the States, ensuring smooth cooperation and coordination between the two levels of government.
Directions by Centre to States (Article 256)
This article empowers the Union to issue directions to the States to ensure compliance with Parliamentary laws. It emphasises the need for uniform application of laws across all States, especially in matters such as untouchability.
Exercise of Executive Power (Article 257)
States are required to exercise their executive power in a manner that does not impede the Union's executive power within the State.
The Union can issue directions to States on specific matters like national or military communication infrastructure and railway protection, with mechanisms for resolving disputes over expenditure.
Delegation of Union's Functions to States (Article 258)
The President, with the consent of a State government, can entrust certain Union functions to the State. Additionally, Parliament can utilise State machinery for the enforcement of Union laws without the need for State consent, which can sometimes encroach on State autonomy.
Inter-State Relations (Articles 260-263)
These articles address various aspects of inter-state relations. Article 260 grants exclusive jurisdiction to the Union over territories outside India. Article 261 ensures that public acts, records, and judicial proceedings of both the Union and the States are recognized and respected throughout India.
Article 262 provides for Parliamentary control over inter-state rivers and the adjudication of inter-state water disputes to prevent friction between Union and States or among States.
Article 263 establishes the Inter-State Council, a constitutional body tasked with advising on and resolving inter-state disputes and matters of common interest, promoting better coordination between the Union and the States.
The establishment of the Inter-State Council, based on the recommendations of the Sarkaria Commission, underscores the importance of fostering cooperation and coordination among States and between the Union and the States for effective governance.
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