Introduction
Sovereignty is a foundational concept in political and legal theory, referring to the supreme authority within a territory. It denotes the ultimate power of the state to govern itself without any external interference. The term is derived from the Latin word superanus, meaning supreme or paramount.
Historical Evolution
The idea of sovereignty gained prominence during the formation of modern nation-states, particularly after the Treaty of Westphalia (1648), which emphasized the authority of states over their internal affairs. Thinkers like Jean Bodin, Thomas Hobbes, and John Austin significantly shaped the modern understanding of sovereignty.
Also read- Vishaka v. State of Rajasthan
Types of Sovereignty
- Legal Sovereignty
Refers to the body or authority legally entitled to make laws—typically the legislature in a democratic state. It is the ultimate source of law within the legal system. - Political Sovereignty
Denotes the real power behind legal sovereignty. For example, in a democracy, the electorate holds political sovereignty, as elected representatives derive authority from them. - Internal Sovereignty
Refers to the state’s supreme authority over all individuals and associations within its territory. - External Sovereignty
Refers to the state’s independence from foreign control. It signifies the state’s ability to engage in international relations on its own terms. - Popular Sovereignty
A concept where sovereignty resides in the people, who are the ultimate source of all political power. It is a fundamental aspect of democratic systems.
Key Theories of Sovereignty
- Austin’s Theory (Legal/Monistic View)
John Austin defined sovereignty as the power of a determinate human superior who is habitually obeyed by the bulk of society and does not himself obey any other earthly authority. This theory emphasizes legal command and authority. - Pluralist Theory
Opposed to Austin, pluralist thinkers like Harold Laski and G.D.H. Cole argue that sovereignty is not absolute and is shared among various associations and institutions within the state (e.g., churches, trade unions). - Jean Bodin’s Theory
Bodin defined sovereignty as “the absolute and perpetual power of a Republic,” emphasizing the indivisible and absolute nature of state authority. - Hobbes’ Theory
Thomas Hobbes viewed sovereignty as absolute and undivided, necessary to maintain order in a society governed by a social contract.
Sovereignty in the Indian Context
India’s Constitution reflects the idea of popular sovereignty, with power ultimately resting in the hands of the people. The Preamble declares India as a “Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic,” affirming both internal and external sovereignty.
- Parliament is the legal sovereign within the constitutional framework.
- The judiciary acts as a guardian of constitutional sovereignty through judicial review (e.g., Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala, where the Supreme Court upheld the basic structure of the Constitution).
Also read- Law & Social Change
Challenges to Sovereignty
- Globalization
Multinational corporations, international treaties, and organizations (like WTO, UN) limit state autonomy in some spheres. - Human Rights Regimes
International human rights norms sometimes supersede national laws, impacting the traditional notion of absolute sovereignty. - Internal Conflicts
Separatist movements and insurgencies can challenge internal sovereignty. - Supranational Organizations
Membership in organizations like the European Union often requires surrendering part of national sovereignty.
Conclusion
Sovereignty remains a vital concept in understanding the authority and functioning of modern states. While classical theories viewed sovereignty as absolute and indivisible, contemporary realities have led to a more nuanced, flexible, and shared understanding. In democratic societies, sovereignty is increasingly seen as residing in the people and exercised through constitutional institutions.