New Delhi: A new commission to redefine Centre-State ties was set up on Friday to examine the possibility of giving sweeping powers to the Union Government, including suo motu deployment of Central forces in States and investigation of crimes affecting national security.

The commission, to be chaired by the former Chief Justice of India, M.M. Punchhi, will also examine what could be the Centre's "role, responsibility and jurisdiction" vis-à-vis States during major and prolonged outbreaks of communal violence, caste violence or any other social conflict.

Terms of reference

Under the terms of reference, which could have far-reaching political implications, the four-member commission would also review other aspects of Centre-State relations, including taxes and linking of rivers.

The panel, set up two decades after the Sarkaria Commission was formed, has Dhirendra Singh and V.K. Duggal, both former Union Home Secretaries, and N.R. Madhava Menon, former Director of National Judicial Academy as members. The commission will submit its recommendations in two years, an official release said.

The commission will explore whether there is a need to set up a Central law enforcement agency to take up suo motu investigation of crimes having inter-State or international ramifications with serious implications on national security.

The feasibility of a supporting legislation under Article 355 for the purpose of suo motu deployment of Central forces in the States if and when the situation demanded, also figures in the terms of reference of the commission, which replaces the Sarkaria panel.

Devolution of powers

The role, responsibility and jurisdiction of the Centre vis-à-vis States in promoting effective devolution of powers and autonomy to Panchayati Raj institutions and local bodies will be looked into by the new commission.

Promoting the concept and practice of independent planning and budgeting at the district level and linking Central assistance of various kinds with the performance of the States also figure in the terms of reference.

The need and relevance of separate taxes and for freeing inter-State trade to establish a unified domestic market will also be studied.

The commission will also examine the role of Governors, emergency provisions, financial relations, economic and social planning, Panchayati Raj institutions and sharing of resources, including inter-State river waters. — PTI

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