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Delimitation-The spirit of cooperative federalism is the way forward
Concerns expressed in general, and especially, across southern states, with emphasis on the potential emergence of a North–South imbalance, underscore the need for a more nuanced and consensus-driven approach, with absolutely no scope for confrontation whatsoever it may be. The way forward must be guided by the ‘Spirit of Cooperative Federalism’ and the capacity to harmonize diversity within a unified national framework, ensuring that no region feels disadvantaged or disproportionately empowered. Any future attempt at delimitation, if not conceived in fairness, inclusivity, and mutual trust, above demographic considerations, risks undermining its own purpose. Theanticipated defeat of the hurriedly processed delimitation Bill in the Lok Sabha has opened space for wider and more meaningful nationwide deliberation on the future of ‘India’s Representative Democratic Framework’, which is characteristic and enduring in letter and spirit in tune with the comprehension of the ‘largest democracy in the world.’ What began as a structural reform proposal, evolved into a broader challenging conversation on equity, federal balance, and democratic integrity. At its core lies the trial of reconciling the constitutional principle of equal representation with the diverse developmental trajectories of states. Concerns expressed in general, and especially, across southern states, with emphasis on the potential emergence of a North–South imbalance, underscore the need for a more nuanced and consensus-driven approach, with absolutely no scope for confrontation whatsoever it may be. The way forward must be guided by the ‘Spirit of Cooperative Federalism’ and the capacity to harmonize diversity within a unified national framework, ensuring that no region feels disadvantaged or disproportionately empowered. Any future attempt at delimitation, if not conceived in fairness, inclusivity, and mutual trust, above demographic considerations, risks undermining its own purpose. As known to all, a set of legislative proposals introduced in the Lok Sabha in April 2026, including the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, the Delimitation Bill, and amendments relating to Union Territories, ultimately lapsed following the defeat of the principal measure. These proposals were intended to end the freeze on parliamentary seat allocation, expand the strength of the Lok Sabha, and enable the implementation of women’s reservation in the 2029 elections. Departing from the established practice of awai...
Roadblock to Reform: a critical look at the obstacle to Federal Shift ...
INTRODUCTION. The proposal to shift the Philippines from a unitary to a federal system gained renewed national attention in 2019, when debates over constitutional reform intensified under the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte. Supporters argued that federalism could address long-standing problems such as the overconcentration of power in Metro Manila, unequal regional development, and the slow delivery of government services in the provinces. They claimed that giving greater autonomy and resources to regional governments would create a more balanced and responsive political system. However, the renewed push also exposed serious concerns regarding political motives, institutional readiness, and the complexity of restructuring the state.Two political parties became closely associated with the campaign for federalism: PDP–Laban and Partido Federal ng Pilipinas. PDP–Laban, the party of then-President Duterte, strongly promoted constitutional change and framed federalism as a path toward decentralization and national unity. Meanwhile, Partido Federal ng Pilipinas later emerged as another major political force carrying federalist themes into subsequent political discourse. Despite their support, both parties faced skepticism from critics who questioned whether the proposed reforms were genuinely intended to empower local governments or primarily to strengthen political influence. Their involvement highlights how the federalism debate in the Philippines has been shaped not only by policy goals, but also by partisan interests and power dynamics. SIX MAJOR ROADBLOCKS1. Political Complexity and the High Bar for Constitutional ChangeOne of the biggest obstacles to a federal shift in the Philippines is the difficulty of amending or rewriting the Constitution. Any major change requires support from Congress, possible constituent assemblies or conventions, and in many cases approval through a national plebiscite. Because political leaders often have competing interests, gaining broad agreement is extremely difficult. Constitutional reform also tends to become controversial, with critics fearing hidden political agendas such as term extensions or concentration of power.2. The Financial Cost of Reconstructing a New GovernmentTransitioning to federalism would require enormous financial resources. New regional governments, legislatures, courts, and administrative offices would need to be established. Existing institutions would also need restructuring, while publi...
Federalism and Conservatism in Ethiopia: Reframing the Debate Beyond ...
Federalism, in its essence, is not a destabilizing force. It is a governance structure designed to manage diversity, distribute power, and maintain cohesion across complex societies. Ethiopia adopted such a system formally under the 1995 Constitution of Ethiopia, following a long period of centralized rule and conflict.
S.J.V. Chelvanayakam: Visionary and statesman - Daily Mirror
Federalism and paths to constitutional reform The Bandaranaike-Chelvanayakam Pact was an agreement signed between the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka S. W. R. D. Bandaranaike (extreme left) and the ...
