Kerala’s New “Foreign Secretary”: A Move That’s Stirring Up Controversy

The recent appointment of a “Foreign Secretary” in Kerala has sparked a political storm, with the BJP accusing Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of “blatant overreach” and exceeding his constitutional authority. While the appointment itself might seem like a routine matter, it has become a focal point of debate, highlighting the complex relationship between states and the central government in India.

The Appointment and the Outcry:

On August 3, 2023, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan appointed Dr. K. J. Sohan, a seasoned diplomat and former Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, as the state’s “Foreign Secretary.” The appointment was made under the Kerala Foreign Relations Act 2019, a state law that seeks to regulate Kerala’s foreign relations.

The BJP, however, slammed the appointment, calling it a “blatant overreach” and a violation of the Constitution’s 7th Schedule, which defines the respective domains of the Union and the States. BJP leaders argued that foreign relations are solely the domain of the central government, and the state’s attempt to appoint a “Foreign Secretary” is an unconstitutional move.

The Debate: State vs. Centre

This incident has brought to light the ongoing tug-of-war between states and the central government regarding their respective powers in the realm of foreign relations. While the Constitution clearly mandates that foreign relations are a Union subject, states have been increasingly engaging in bilateral and multilateral collaborations with other nations, particularly in areas of trade, culture, and education.

The Kerala Foreign Relations Act 2019 itself is a testament to this trend. It allows the state government to engage in diplomatic activities, including establishing liaison offices in foreign countries, entering into agreements with foreign entities, and participating in international conferences.

The Central Government’s Perspective:

While the central government has not officially challenged the appointment or the state law, it has consistently emphasized the supremacy of the Union government in foreign affairs. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has maintained that states must follow the MEA’s guidelines while engaging in international collaborations.

The Factual Data

The debate over Kerala’s “Foreign Secretary” raises several key questions:

• What are the constitutional limits on state engagement in foreign affairs?

• Does the Kerala Foreign Relations Act 2019 infringe upon the Union government’s power over foreign relations?

• What are the practical implications of the state’s appointment of a “Foreign Secretary”?

The 7th Schedule of the Indian Constitution outlines the areas of legislative power for both the Union and the States. While foreign affairs are a Union subject, Article 253 allows Parliament to make laws for states in matters not included in the State List. However, the scope of this power remains a subject of interpretation.

The Case of Kerala:

Kerala, with its strong diaspora and strategic location, has been at the forefront of states engaging in international relations. The state’s efforts in promoting its culture, trade, and tourism have resulted in significant partnerships with countries around the world.

However, the appointment of a “Foreign Secretary” has raised concerns about the potential for conflicts with the central government’s foreign policy. It is possible that the state government may be perceived as encroaching upon the Union government’s exclusive domain in foreign affairs.

The Future of State-Level Diplomacy:

The Kerala “Foreign Secretary” controversy is likely to fuel further debates regarding the role of states in India’s foreign policy. While states may have legitimate interests in engaging with other nations, the need to maintain a cohesive national foreign policy necessitates careful coordination with the central government.

Key Takeaways:

• The Kerala “Foreign Secretary” appointment highlights the increasing role of states in international affairs.

• The debate underscores the need for a clear understanding of the constitutional framework governing state-level diplomacy.

• The incident serves as a reminder of the complex dynamics between the Union and the States in India.

The Kerala case offers valuable insights into the evolving nature of India’s foreign policy landscape. As states become increasingly active in international affairs, finding a balanced approach that respects both state interests and national unity will be crucial.

Keywords: Kerala, Foreign Secretary, Pinarayi Vijayan, BJP, 7th Schedule, Indian Constitution, State-Level Diplomacy, Foreign Relations, International Relations, Ministry of External Affairs, MEA, Kerala Foreign Relations Act 2019, Dr. K. J. Sohan.