Which one of the following in Indian polity is an essential feature that indicates that it is federal in character?

1. A

   The independence of judiciary is safeguarded.

   Independence of the judiciary. An independent court that can umpire Centre–State and federal lists is the keyed federal marker among these four.

2. B

   The Union Legislature has elected representatives from constituent units.

   Union Legislature with members from units. True of many unions; not the distinctive essential as keyed here.

3. C

   The Union Cabinet can have elected representatives from regional parties.

   Regional parties in the Cabinet. A coalition fact, not a federal essential.

4. D

   The Fundamental Rights are enforceable by Courts of Law.

   Justiciable Fundamental Rights. A rights feature of unitary and federal states alike.

Summary. Official key is (a). Among the options, a safeguarded independent judiciary is the federal essential — it polices the division of powers. FR enforcement, regional ministers and a composite House are not that test.