The Punchhi Commission

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 The Punchhi Commission was established in April 2007 under the chairmanship of Justice Madan Mohan Punchhi, a former Chief Justice of India. It was set up to re-examine Centre-State relations, considering the evolving political and economic landscape since the Sarkaria Commission (1988).

Key Recommendations of the Punchhi Commission

  1. Restraint in Using Article 356

    • Suggested that President’s Rule should be imposed only as a last resort.

    • Recommended issuing warnings before invoking Article 356.

  2. Governor’s Role

    • Governors should remain politically neutral for at least two years before appointment.

    • Proposed a committee-based appointment process, including the Prime Minister, Home Minister, Lok Sabha Speaker, and the concerned Chief Minister.

  3. Inter-State Council

    • Recommended to make the Inter-State Council a permanent body to foster Centre-State cooperation.

  4. Union’s Treaty-Making Power

    • Suggested regulating treaties affecting State List subjects, ensuring state consultation.

  5. Concurrent List Legislation

    • States should be consulted before introducing bills on concurrent list matters.

The Commission emphasized cooperative federalism, ensuring greater autonomy for states while maintaining national unity.

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