IGNOUMATIC

Inter-state disputes in India, whether over water, land, boundaries, or other resources, have been a recurring issue. The Indian Constitution provides various mechanisms for resolving these disputes, primarily to maintain harmony between the federal and state governments. The key constitutional mechanisms include:

1. Inter-State Council (ISC): Established under Article 263 of the Constitution, the Inter-State Council is a major mechanism to resolve inter-state disputes. The ISC is tasked with promoting coordination between the states and the central government. It also investigates and discusses matters of common interest between the states and recommends measures to resolve any disputes. While its role is advisory, it serves as a forum for addressing political and administrative issues at the federal level.
2. Zonal Councils: These are statutory bodies set up under the States Reorganization Act of 1956. They are created to promote cooperation and coordination between states in the same region. There are five zonal councils: Northern, Western, Southern, Eastern, and Central. Zonal councils are important for discussing matters related to inter-state boundaries and coordination.
3. Tribunals for Specific Disputes: The Constitution has provisions for setting up tribunals to resolve specific types of inter-state disputes. For example, the Water Disputes Tribunal (set up under Article 262) is empowered to adjudicate disputes related to interstate rivers and river valleys. The Constitutional Provisions under Article 262 allow the central government to resolve water disputes through such tribunals.
4. The Supreme Court of India: As per Article 131, the Supreme Court of India has original jurisdiction in disputes between states or between the Union and the states. The Supreme Court’s role is pivotal in settling legal conflicts that arise between state governments or between a state and the central government, ensuring that constitutional and legal principles are upheld.
5. Arbitration and Negotiation: In certain cases, the central government may act as an arbitrator or mediator between states, urging negotiation and dialogue to resolve the issue amicably. This often happens before a dispute reaches formal arbitration or legal adjudication.

In summary, the Indian Constitution provides a range of mechanisms—both political and legal—to resolve inter-state disputes. These mechanisms aim to balance the interests of the central and state governments and foster cooperation between them.