Concept:The Indian Constitution is called 'quasi-federal' because it blends federal features with strong unitary powers of the Union Government.
Explanation:A true federal system divides power equally between centre and states. However, the Indian Constitution gives the Union Government overriding authority in many areas.
During emergencies (Articles 352, 356, 360), the Union can suspend federal provisions and take control of states.
The Union List includes key subjects like defence, foreign affairs, and atomic energy – only the Union can make laws here.
In the Concurrent List, both levels can legislate, but if a conflict arises, the Union law wins.
Under Article 3, the Union Parliament can change state boundaries or create new states without state consent.
The President appoints state Governors, who act as the Union's representatives in states.
Even in financial matters, the Union has overriding powers through the Finance Commission.
These strong centralizing tendencies make the Constitution federal in structure but unitary in spirit.
Answer:C. Strong centralizing tendencies and powers of the Union Government.