Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Wednesday called for a constitutional amendment to grant greater autonomy to states, arguing that the current federal structure leaves state governments dependent on the Union for funds and key powers.

Speaking in the Tamil Nadu Assembly, Stalin said the state had been compelled to “fight” with the Centre to secure resources that rightfully belong to it. He alleged that excessive centralisation has weakened cooperative federalism and hindered governance in a diverse country.

“We are in a situation where we have to fight with the Union Government for every fund. How long must we remain in the position where they give, and we receive?” Stalin said while referring to the first part of a report by a High Level Committee studying Centre State relations, which was tabled in the House.

Demand For Constitutional Reform

Stalin argued that the Constitution should be amended to transform state governments into “fully empowered governments” with greater control over finances, land and administrative matters.

“The Constitution must be amended to transform State Governments into fully empowered governments. All States must have autonomy. We are still in a situation where we have to struggle to secure rights over land and financial powers,” he said.

He emphasised that federalism is essential for governing a country as diverse as India and warned that excessive concentration of authority at the Centre undermines democratic balance.

“The Union Government, which holds all powers within itself, does not respect the State Governments,” Stalin said, adding that Tamil Nadu would continue to press for its rights.

Beyond Party Politics

The Chief Minister maintained that the demand for state autonomy transcends party lines and should be seen as a structural issue rather than a political confrontation.

“This is not the demand of a single political party. Beyond political differences, everyone needs to accept the demand for State autonomy,” he said.

Stalin also asserted that states should not be placed in a subordinate position where they must repeatedly seek approval or financial assistance from the Centre. Stronger federalism, he argued, would lead to more responsive governance and better development outcomes.

The remarks are likely to intensify the ongoing debate over Centre State relations, fiscal federalism and the balance of power within India’s constitutional framework, issues that have resurfaced amid disputes over fund allocation, taxation and administrative authority.

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