Detailed Explanation:

Answer: Option 1 — The independence of judiciary is safeguarded.

An independent judiciary is a defining feature of federalism as it acts as an impartial arbiter to resolve disputes between the Union and States regarding the division of powers and interpretation of the Constitution. In a federal system, the judiciary ensures that both levels of government operate within their constitutional limits, maintaining the federal balance.

Let's evaluate each option:

✅ Option 1 – Correct: An independent judiciary is essential to federalism as it resolves Centre-State disputes and protects the constitutional distribution of powers, serving as the guardian of the federal structure.

❌ Option 2 – Incorrect: Having elected representatives from constituent units in the Union Legislature is common in both federal and unitary systems with devolved powers; it is not exclusively a federal feature.

❌ Option 3 – Incorrect: The presence of regional party representatives in the Union Cabinet is a political phenomenon, not a constitutional feature that defines federalism.

❌ Option 4 – Incorrect: While Fundamental Rights enforceable by courts are crucial for democracy and rule of law, they exist in both federal and unitary states and are not exclusive indicators of federalism.

📝 Short Notes: Essential Features of Federalism

• Dual Polity: Distribution of powers between the Centre and States with each having distinct spheres of authority.
• Written Constitution: A supreme written constitution that delineates powers and cannot be easily amended unilaterally.
• Independent Judiciary: An impartial judiciary to interpret the Constitution and adjudicate disputes between the Centre and States.
• Rigid Constitution: Amendment process requiring special procedures to protect the federal structure from arbitrary changes.
• Bicameralism: A bicameral legislature where the upper house represents constituent units (like Rajya Sabha representing States).
• Supremacy of Constitution: Both levels of government derive authority from and are bound by the Constitution.