Notes Class 7 Chapter 3 Civics Maharashtra Board

Notes For All Chapters – Civics Class 7

Features of the Constitution

1. Introduction to the Federal Government

• A federal government is a system where power is divided between a central authority (national government) and regional authorities (state governments).
• The Constitution of India defines how power is shared between the Central Government and State Governments.
• This system ensures efficient governance and prevents concentration of power in one authority.
• Example of federal countries: India, the USA, Canada, Australia.

2. Features of a Federal Government

A federal government has the following key features:

1. Two levels of Government – The government operates at the Central and State levels.
2. Division of Powers – The Constitution distributes powers among both levels through Union, State, and Concurrent Lists.
3. Written Constitution – A federal system is based on a written constitution to clearly define the powers of both governments.
4. Supremacy of the Constitution – The Constitution is the highest law in the country, and both governments must follow it.
5. Independent Judiciary – Courts ensure that the division of power is followed correctly and resolve disputes between the Centre and States.
6. Bicameral Legislature – In some federal systems (like India and the USA), there are two houses of Parliament to represent both national and regional interests.

3. Division of Powers

The Constitution of India divides the powers between the Central and State Governments into three lists:

A. Union List (Central Government)

• This list contains subjects that are of national importance and require uniform laws for the entire country.
• Only the Central Government (Parliament) can make laws on these subjects.
• Examples:
  1. Defence
  2. Foreign Affairs
  3. Railways
  4. Atomic Energy
  5. Banking
  6. Communication
  7. Citizenship

B. State List (State Government)

• This list contains subjects of regional and local importance.
• Only State Governments can make laws on these subjects.
• Examples:
  1. Police
  2. Agriculture
  3. Public Health
  4. Water Supply
  5. Land and Buildings
  6. Fisheries
  7. Local Government

C. Concurrent List (Both Central & State Governments)

• This list contains subjects on which both the Central and State Governments can make laws.
• If there is a conflict between the Central and State law, the Central law prevails.
• Examples:
  1. Education
  2. Criminal Law
  3. Marriage and Divorce
  4. Forests
  5. Trade Unions
  6. Economic Planning

4. Residuary Powers

• Some subjects do not fall under any of the three lists. These are called Residuary Powers.
• According to the Indian Constitution, these powers belong to the Central Government.
• Examples:
  • Cyber Laws
  • Space Research
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Social Media Regulations

5. Need for Government at Two Levels in a Federation

A federal government functions at two levels to ensure:

1. Efficient Governance – Local issues are managed at the state level, while national matters are handled centrally.
2. Power Sharing – It prevents the concentration of power in one authority.
3. Better Administration – Different levels of government can focus on their respective responsibilities.
4. Regional and Cultural Autonomy – India has diverse cultures, languages, and traditions. State governments can address local needs better.

6. Judiciary in a Federal System

• In a federal system, the judiciary plays a vital role in maintaining balance and law.
• India has an independent judiciary to ensure fairness and justice.
• The judiciary is responsible for:
  1. Interpreting the Constitution – Ensures that laws follow constitutional principles.
  2. Protecting Fundamental Rights – Citizens can approach courts if their rights are violated.
  3. Settling Disputes – Resolves conflicts between the Central and State Governments.
  4. Ensuring Justice for All – Provides equal justice to all citizens.

7. Independent Judiciary in India

The Indian Judiciary is independent of the Executive and Legislature. This means:

✔ Judges are appointed based on merit, not political influence.

✔ Courts have the power to review laws made by the government.

✔ The government cannot interfere in court decisions.

Importance of an Independent Judiciary

• Ensures justice is impartial.
• Prevents misuse of power by the government.
• Safeguards citizens’ rights and freedoms.

8. Merits and Demerits of an Independent Judiciary

Merits:

✔️ Ensures Fair Justice – No one is above the law.
✔️ Protects Fundamental Rights – Courts can stop unfair government actions.
✔️ Prevents Corruption – No political influence in judicial decisions.
✔️ Resolves Disputes – Settles conflicts between people, states, and the central government.

Demerits:

❌ Judicial Delays – Many cases take years to resolve.
❌ Judicial Overreach – Sometimes courts interfere in government decisions.
❌ Expensive Legal System – Lawyers and court fees can be costly.
❌ Possibility of Corruption – Some judges may misuse their power.

9. Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) and Its Advantages

What is an EVM?

• An Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) is a device used for casting votes electronically instead of using paper ballots.
• It ensures faster and more secure elections.

Advantages of EVMs:

✔️ Fast and Accurate Counting – No manual counting, reducing errors.
✔️ Prevents Electoral Fraud – Reduces chances of booth capturing and rigging.
✔️ Eco-Friendly – Saves paper by eliminating paper ballots.
✔️ Easy to Use – Simple for voters to operate.
✔️ Reduces Cost of Elections – No need for printing millions of paper ballots.
✔️ Ensures Free and Fair Elections – More transparency in the voting process.

10. Conclusion

• A federal system ensures proper power distribution between the Central and State Governments.
• The judiciary plays a crucial role in maintaining justice and protecting fundamental rights.
• EVMs have improved the election process by making it more efficient and transparent.