Which of the following correctly explains how legislative powers are divided between the Union and the States in India?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is option 3 i.e. Union List subjects are for Parliament, State List subjects are for States, and both can legislate on the Concurrent List.
Legislative powers in India are divided through the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution into Union List, State List, and Concurrent List. Parliament exclusively legislates on Union List subjects like defence and foreign affairs, while State Legislatures handle State List matters such as police and public health. Both can make laws on Concurrent List subjects like education and forests, but in case of conflict, Parliament’s law prevails.
- Option A is incorrect because States do not legislate on all subjects.
- Option B is wrong as there is a Concurrent List.
- Option D is incorrect since Parliament can legislate on State subjects under special circumstances like Emergency or Rajya Sabha resolution.