The Punchhi Commission

 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.