12.2. Functions

♤ It is a recommendatory body on issues relating to interstate, Centre-State, and Centre and Union Territory relations.

♤ Its function is complementary to Supreme Court’s jurisdiction under Art 131 to decide a

legal controversy between the governments.

♤ It is not a permanent constitutional body but it can be established ‘at any time’ if it appears to the President that the public interests would be served by the establishment of such a council.

ISC standing committee

The Standing Committee of the Council was set up in 1996 for continuous consultation and processing of matters for the consideration of the council.

The Committee consists of following members:

1. Union Home Minster (Head)

2. Five Union Cabinet Ministers

3. Nine Chief Ministers

The Committee is assisted by Inter-State Council Secretariat, set up in 1991 and headed by a Secretary to Government of India.