4.2. Is There a Need for 2nd State Reorganisation Commission?

The increasing demand for new states raises a number of questions with regard to the well- being of India’s federal democratic polity. There are four measures that must be considered while devising any framework to address the issue of federal reorganisation.

♤ The constitution of a permanent State Reorganisation Commission

♤ Amendment of the Constitution to ensure that the demand for a new state emanates from the state legislature and not at the centre

♤ Examination of economic and social viability rather than political considerations

♤ Clear-cut safeguards to encourage democratic concerns like development and governance rather than religion, caste and language as valid grounds for a new state

There have long been calls for the establishment of a second States Reorganisation Commission (SRC) to take a more comprehensive look at the shape and size of India's states. If one were to be established, a new SRC might address the following range of questions.