Which body has the power to amend the Union and State power distribution under the Indian Constitution?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
Answer: Parliament
Explanation: Under the Indian Constitution, the distribution of powers between the Union and the States is defined in the Seventh Schedule (Union List, State List, and Concurrent List). Any amendment to these provisions can only be made by the Parliament through the constitutional amendment procedure under Article 368.
Thus, only the Parliament of India has the authority to amend the Union–State power distribution.
Additional Key Facts
The Seventh Schedule contains:
Union List (Parliament has exclusive power)
State List (State legislatures have exclusive power)
Concurrent List (both can legislate)
Constitutional amendments require:
Special majority in Parliament
In some cases, ratification by at least half of the states
Federal structure of India is quasi-federal (strong Centre)
Key Article involved: Article 368 (Amendment of Constitution)
Potential Exam-Oriented Questions & Answers
Question: What are the three lists in the Seventh Schedule?
Answer: Union List, State List, Concurrent List
Question: What type of federalism does India follow?
Answer: Quasi-federal system