Engaging with foreign governments

Article 253 of the Constitution enables the Federal administration to rides roughshod over States' rights, when it implements a treaty and a decision at an international conference.

If the Federal government concludes an international convention on say, health - the Parliament will have the power to make any law to implement it, although it falls in the State list.

In the last 70 years the number of such bodies has grown much.

It is not necessary to amend the constitution to confer on States, a consultative status on foreign affairs - when their interests are involved. Procedures can be devised in consultation with the States and the document endorsed by both Houses of Parliament.

A Parliamentary resolution can give States a greater say on foreign affairs, when their interests are involved. And can recognise the right of their Chief Ministers to engage with foreign governments, provided the Federation is kept in the picture.

- States should have a say in foreign affairs  
A G Noorani,  Deccan Chronicle