Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai

Chennai, Feb 18: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin on Wednesday tabled a key report in the State Assembly advocating greater autonomy for states and proposing amendments to the Constitution to strengthen India’s federal structure.

The report was prepared by a committee headed by former Supreme Court judge Kurian Joseph and was submitted to the Chief Minister on February 16. Calling the development “historic,” Stalin said the initiative seeks to redefine Centre–State relations and ensure a more balanced distribution of powers.

Speaking in the Assembly, the Chief Minister emphasised that enhanced autonomy for states, along with a coalition government at the Union level, was vital for equitable development across the country. He asserted that the demand transcends political considerations and is aimed at protecting the growth, rights and livelihoods of citizens.

Stalin pointed out that the Constitution has undergone more than 100 amendments since Independence, stating that further changes can be made to empower states and uphold the spirit of federalism. He also alleged that states continue to struggle for adequate financial allocations and administrative powers, reiterating his party’s long-standing call for greater fiscal decentralisation.

The move received backing from the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee. Its president, K. Selvaperunthagai, said the party welcomed the proposal and would place the matter before the All India Congress Committee for wider consultations.

He added that the Congress supports enhanced state autonomy and would decide on supporting any proposed constitutional amendment after discussions at the national level.