​Which one of the following is a common feature between the Swiss and the Indian federation ?​

Correct option is A

The correct answer is (a) Division of powers between the Centre and the Units, which is a common feature between the Swiss and Indian federations. Both Switzerland and India follow the federal system of governance where the constitutionally demarcated powers are distributed between the central government and the sub-national units (cantons in Switzerland and states in India).

In India, the Constitution explicitly enumerates the division of powers through three lists in the Seventh Schedule: Union List, State List, and Concurrent List. In Switzerland, the Swiss Federal Constitution provides for a clear division of competencies between the Confederation (Federal Government) and the Cantons, where Cantons retain all powers that are not explicitly granted to the Confederation.

This structural mechanism ensures a balanced power-sharing arrangement and is one of the hallmarks of a federal system in both countries.

Information Booster

Let’s evaluate the incorrect options:

(b) Judicial Review:
India has a strong system of judicial review, with the Supreme Court empowered to strike down unconstitutional laws. However, Switzerland does not practice judicial review in the same manner. The Swiss Federal Court has limited powers in reviewing federal laws; it cannot set aside acts of Parliament on grounds of unconstitutionality.

(c) Equal representation of the Units in the Upper House:
This is true for Switzerland, where each canton has equal representation in the Council of States (Upper House). However, India does not follow this principle. In the Rajya Sabha (Upper House), representation is based on the population of each state, which means states do not have equal representation.​