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

1. The question asks for an essential feature of Indian polity that specifically indicates its federal character. 2. A federal system involves a division of powers between the central (Union) government and constituent units (States). An essential feature of federalism is a mechanism to resolve disputes between these levels of government regarding their respective powers. 3. Option (A) states that the independence of the judiciary is safeguarded. An independent judiciary is crucial in a federal system to interpret the Constitution, uphold the division of powers, and adjudicate disputes between the Union and the States impartially. This is considered an essential feature indicating a federal character. 4. Option (B) states that the Union Legislature has elected representatives from constituent units. While true (Lok Sabha represents people directly, Rajya Sabha represents states), this feature is also present in unitary systems with decentralized structures. It doesn't uniquely define federalism. 5. Option (C) states that the Union Cabinet can have elected representatives from regional parties. This reflects multi-party democracy and coalition politics, not necessarily federalism itself. 6. Option (D) states that the Fundamental Rights are enforceable by Courts of Law. This is a feature of constitutionalism and protection of individual rights, found in both federal and unitary systems with written constitutions and judicial review. Therefore, the safeguarding of judicial independence is the most direct indicator of a federal character among the options, as it ensures the impartial adjudication of Centre-State disputes.