Which institution acts as the final interpreter and arbiter in disputes between the Union and State governments regarding their respective powers?

Correct Option

The correct option is The Judiciary.

Explanation

The Constitution of India establishes a federal structure characterized by a division of powers between the Union and the State governments. In such a system, disputes regarding the extent of legislative and executive authority are inevitable. To maintain the supremacy of the Constitution and the federal equilibrium, an independent institution is required to interpret constitutional provisions and adjudicate these disputes.

Option Analysis

• The Judiciary The Judiciary: Correct. The Supreme Court of India serves as the final interpreter and guardian of the Constitution. Under Article 131, it exercises original and exclusive jurisdiction over disputes between the Government of India and one or more States, or between two or more States. This ensures that legal conflicts regarding the division of powers are resolved by an independent judicial body.
• The President of India The President of India: Incorrect. The President is the Executive Head of the State. While the President acts on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers and has specific executive powers, the office does not function as a judicial court to settle federal disputes.
• The Parliament The Parliament: Incorrect. The Parliament is the legislative organ of the Union. It cannot act as an arbiter in federal disputes because the constitutionality of the laws enacted by the Parliament itself is often the subject matter of such disputes.
• The Election Commission The Election Commission: Incorrect. The Election Commission is an independent constitutional body responsible for administering elections to the Parliament, State Legislatures, and the offices of President and Vice-President. It does not have jurisdiction over federal constitutional disputes regarding the division of powers.

Key Takeaway: An independent judiciary is a hallmark of a federal constitution. The Supreme Court of India acts as the federal court and the final interpreter of the Constitution to resolve conflicts between the Centre and the States.