Articles 282 to 284 of the Indian Constitution: Grants-in-Aid and Expenditure on Recommendations of the Finance Commission

Introduction :

The Indian Constitution encompasses provisions relating to grants-in-aid and expenditure on the recommendations of the Finance Commission. Articles 282 to 284 outline these provisions, focusing on the power of the Union to make grants to states and the utilization of such grants for specific purposes. In this article, we engage in a comprehensive discussion, exploring the relevance of these articles in the modern era, and analyzing relevant case laws that shed light on their significance in contemporary India.

Article 282: Expenditure defrayable by the Union or a state out of its revenues :

Article 282 empowers the Union and the states to incur expenditure for any purpose that is in the interest of the country or a particular state, respectively. This provision provides flexibility in allocating resources and enables the government to undertake necessary expenditure for the welfare and development of the nation. The case of State of West Bengal v. Union of India sheds light on the interpretation and application of Article 282. The Supreme Court, in this case, held that the power conferred under Article 282 is plenary, and the Union and the states have the authority to incur expenditure for any purpose that is within the legislative competence of the respective authorities. This judgment underscores the wide-ranging scope of Article 282 and its relevance in addressing the evolving needs of the country.

Article 283: Custody, etc., of Consolidated Funds, Contingency Funds, and moneys credited to the public accounts :

Article 283 establishes the custody and control of the Consolidated Fund, Contingency Fund, and public accounts of India and the states. While Article 283 is not directly related to grants-in-aid and expenditure, it assumes significance in ensuring the proper management and accountability of funds. The case of Centre for Public Interest Litigation v. Union of India provides insights into the interpretation and application of Article 283. The Supreme Court, in this case, emphasized the importance of maintaining transparency and proper utilization of public funds held in various accounts mentioned in Article 283. This judgment highlights the significance of effective financial management and accountability in the modern era.

Article 284: Custody of suitors' deposits and other moneys received by public servants and courts :

Article 284 deals with the custody of suitors' deposits and other funds received by public servants and courts. This provision ensures the safekeeping of funds entrusted to public servants and courts and prevents their misuse or misappropriation. Although there may not be specific case laws directly related to Article 284, the provision underscores the importance of safeguarding public funds and maintaining integrity in financial transactions.

Conclusion (100 words):

Articles 282 to 284 of the Indian Constitution are essential in regulating grants-in-aid, expenditure, and the custody of funds, ensuring transparency, accountability, and proper utilization of resources. Through relevant case laws and practical examples, we have observed the significance of these provisions in facilitating expenditure for the welfare and development of the country, ensuring the custody and management of public funds, and upholding financial integrity. As India progresses in the modern era, it is crucial to sustain the discourse surrounding Articles 282 to 284, promoting effective financial management, transparency, and accountability in the utilization of public funds. This will contribute to the overall economic growth, social welfare, and good governance of the nation.