How do judicial interventions like the Bihar Special Intensive Revision exercise impact the balance between state autonomy and central oversight?

Judicial interventions, such as the Supreme Court’s review of the Bihar Special Intensive Revision exercise, play a significant role in shaping the federal structure of India. These interventions often arise when there are disputes regarding the actions or policies of state governments, and they test the boundaries of state autonomy and central oversight.

• Ensuring Constitutional Compliance: The judiciary acts as the guardian of the Constitution. When states undertake exercises like the Bihar revision, judicial review ensures that these actions do not violate constitutional provisions, such as fundamental rights or federal principles.
• Maintaining Federal Balance: While states have autonomy in their spheres, judicial interventions can check any overreach or misuse of power by the state government. This maintains a balance between the powers of the state and the need for national integrity.
• Central Oversight through Judiciary: The Supreme Court, as the apex judicial authority, represents a form of central oversight. Its interventions can correct state actions that may conflict with national laws or interests, thus reinforcing the unitary features of the Indian federation.
• Protecting Rights of Citizens: Judicial scrutiny ensures that state actions do not infringe upon the rights of individuals or groups. This is especially important in sensitive exercises like population surveys or revisions, where there is potential for discrimination or exclusion.
• Clarifying Powers and Responsibilities: Through its judgments, the judiciary often clarifies the extent of state powers and the limits of central intervention. This helps in resolving ambiguities and guiding future actions by both state and central authorities.
• Promoting Cooperative Federalism: By acting as an impartial arbiter, the judiciary encourages cooperation and dialogue between the Centre and states, rather than confrontation or unilateral actions.