The Sarkaria Commission

 The Sarkaria Commission was established in 1983 by the Government of India to review Centre-State relations and recommend measures to improve federal governance. It was chaired by Justice R. S. Sarkaria, a retired Supreme Court judge.

Key Objectives

  • Assess the distribution of powers, functions, and responsibilities between the Centre and States.

  • Recommend reforms to ensure better coordination and cooperation.

  • Address concerns related to governors’ discretionary powers and the use of Article 356.

Major Recommendations

  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. Strengthening Fiscal Federalism

    • Advocated for greater financial autonomy for states.

    • Recommended fairer revenue-sharing mechanisms.

  3. Governor’s Role

    • Suggested that Governors should be impartial and not act as agents of the Centre.

    • Proposed consultation with Chief Ministers before appointing Governors.

  4. Inter-State Council

    • Recommended to establish a permanent Inter-State Council to foster dialogue between the Centre and States.

The Sarkaria Commission played a crucial role in shaping cooperative federalism in India.

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