Q. Consider the following statements:

1. Unlike other western countries, the Indian Constitution envisages asymmetric federalism.
2. Under Article 371A, the privilege of special status was accorded to the North-Eastern State of Arunachal Pradesh.

Which of the above is / are correct?
Answer: Only 1
Notes: Only the first statement is correct. Unlike the constitutional symmetry of American federalism, Indian federalism has been constitutionally asymmetric. To meet the specific needs and requirements of some sub-units, it was always part of the original design to have a unique relationship with them or to give them special status. For example, the accession of Jammu and Kashmir to the Indian union was based on a commitment to safeguard its autonomy under Article 370 of the Constitution. This is the only State that is governed by its own constitution. Similarly, under Article 371A, the privilege of special status was also accorded to the North-Eastern State of Nagaland.

This question is part of UPSC Daily 20 MCQ Series Course on GKToday Android app.