WBCS.LIVE practice question

The Constitution of India is neither purely federal nor purely unitary but is a combination of both' - Who said so?

Solve this multiple-choice question and check the correct answer with its explanation below.

Answer options

  1. Jawaharlal Nehru
  2. D.D. Basu
  3. Dr. Ambedkar
  4. Rajendra Prasad

Correct answer and explanation

Correct answer: D.D. Basu

Explanation: The idea that the Indian Constitution is both federal and unitary was expressed by D.D. Basu, a noted constitutional expert. 📚 Other Information: ▪️ India’s Constitution has federal features like dual government and division of powers. ▪️ It also has unitary features like a strong Centre and emergency powers. ▪️ Hence, it is called a “federation with a unitary bias.” ▪️ Dr. B.R. Ambedkar also described India as a Union of States, not a federation. ▪️ Federal features are found in Articles 245–255 (distribution of powers). ▪️ During emergencies (Article 352/356), the system becomes unitary. ▪️ The Supreme Court acts as the final interpreter of this balance. ▪️ D.D. Basu’s Commentary on the Constitution of India is a key reference book for aspirants.