Points to Remember:
- The Laxmi Mall Singhvi Committee was appointed to examine the working of the Indian Constitution.
- The report focused on various aspects of the Constitution, including its amendments and implementation.
- Two key features of the report will be identified and explained.
Introduction:
The Laxmi Mall Singhvi Committee, officially known as the Committee on the Review of the Working of the Constitution, was appointed by the Indian government in 1985. Its mandate was to comprehensively review the functioning of the Constitution of India after 35 years of its operation. The committee, chaired by Dr. Laxmi Mall Singhvi, a prominent jurist and parliamentarian, submitted its report in 1987. This report, though not legally binding, offered valuable insights and recommendations for constitutional reforms. This answer will focus on two significant features of this extensive report.
Body:
1. Emphasis on Strengthening Federalism:
One prominent feature of the Singhvi Committee report was its strong emphasis on strengthening the federal structure of India. The committee recognized the need for a more balanced power-sharing arrangement between the Union and the States. The report highlighted concerns about the increasing centralization of power at the Union level and recommended measures to enhance the autonomy and financial resources of the states. This included suggestions for reforming the financial relationship between the Centre and the States, possibly through a more equitable distribution of tax revenues and greater devolution of powers to the states in areas like planning and development. The committee also advocated for greater inter-state cooperation and coordination to address common challenges. The reportâs focus on federalism reflects a growing awareness of the need for a more balanced and participatory federal system in a diverse nation like India.
2. Recommendations on Judicial Reforms:
Another significant feature of the report was its focus on judicial reforms. The committee identified several issues plaguing the Indian judiciary, including the backlog of cases, delays in justice, and the need for improved infrastructure and judicial appointments. The report suggested several measures to address these issues, such as increasing the number of judges, improving judicial infrastructure, streamlining judicial procedures, and introducing alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. The committee also recommended measures to enhance the independence and accountability of the judiciary, including reforms in the process of judicial appointments and the establishment of mechanisms for judicial accountability. These recommendations aimed to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the Indian judicial system and ensure access to justice for all citizens.
Conclusion:
The Laxmi Mall Singhvi Committee report, while not resulting in immediate legislative changes, remains a significant contribution to the ongoing debate on constitutional reforms in India. Its emphasis on strengthening federalism and reforming the judiciary are two of its most prominent features. These recommendations, though debated and not fully implemented, continue to inform discussions on improving governance and ensuring a more just and equitable society. Moving forward, a holistic approach incorporating the committee’s suggestions, along with contemporary challenges and evolving societal needs, is crucial for ensuring the continued relevance and effectiveness of the Indian Constitution in promoting justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity for all citizens. This requires a continuous process of review and adaptation, ensuring the Constitution remains a living document responsive to the needs of a dynamic nation.
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