Under Article 3, Parliament can form new States or alter boundaries of existing States. Which procedural safeguard ensures federal consultation in this process?
- Supreme Court approval before Bill introduction
- Referendum in affected State(s)
- Referral to affected State Legislature(s) for expressing views
- Unanimous consent of all State Legislatures
Answer: Referral to affected State Legislature(s) for expressing views
Article 3 procedure: (a) Bill can be introduced only on President's recommendation, (b) President refers Bill to affected State Legislature(s) for expressing views within specified period, (c) Parliament not bound by State views but must consider them, (d) Simple majority in Parliament suffices for passage. Case study: Andhra Pradesh bifurcation (2014): Bill referred to AP Assembly; views expressed but Parliament proceeded. Balances Union power to reorganize States (for administrative efficiency, linguistic considerations) with federal consultation principle; reflects Indian federalism's flexible, Centre-leaning design.