## Summary: "India’s Queasy Federalism" (The Times of India, August 23, 2025)
This article discusses the **challenges to India's federal structure** posed by recent attempts to alter the balance of power between the Union (central government) and the States. The focus is on a bill proposing the removal of jailed ministers, which has triggered constitutional debates around Articles 368 (amendment power) and 164 (appointment of State ministers).
### Key Points
- **Core Constitutional Tension:** The Indian Constitution aims for a cooperative federalism, but recent events have seen a tilt favoring central authority over states, raising questions about autonomy[1].
- **Role of Articles 368 & 164:** Article 368 determines how constitutional amendments occur, while Article 164 concerns ministerial appointments at the State level. The intersection of these articles has sparked controversy amid the bill proposing removal of ministers who are jailed[1].
- **Power Dynamics:** The article highlights how Supreme Court verdicts and Centre-driven legislation have repeatedly redefined the boundaries of State power versus Union authority[1].
- **Political Context:** There is an increasing trend of the Centre inserting conditions into law that affect State governance, leading to disputes and concerns about erosion of State autonomy[1].
- **Expert Opinions:** Legal experts cited in the article argue that while some central oversight is necessary, unchecked intervention undermines the foundational principle of federalism that safeguards Indian democracy[1].
### Conclusion
The article concludes that India's federal structure remains in a state of precarious balance. While constitutional amendments and central oversight are necessary for unity, excessive centralization risks undermining the autonomy of States and the spirit of cooperative federalism.
SOURCE THE TIMES OF INDIA