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
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.