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Part X of the Constitution of India (Articles 244–244A) provides special administrative arrangements for Scheduled Areas and Tribal Areas through the Fifth and Sixth Schedules, including Tribes Advisory Councils and Autonomous District Councils, with provisions for an autonomous state in certain tribal areas of Assam.
Articles 244 to 244A
Administration of Scheduled Areas and Tribal Areas
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Formation of an autonomous State comprising certain tribal areas in Assam and creation of local Legislature or Council of Ministers or both therefor
Frequently Asked Questions
What is provided under Article 244?
Article 244 applies the Fifth Schedule to Scheduled Areas and Scheduled Tribes in States other than Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram, and applies the Sixth Schedule to the tribal areas in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram.
What are the Fifth and Sixth Schedules?
The Fifth Schedule provides for administration and control of Scheduled Areas and Scheduled Tribes, while the Sixth Schedule provides for Autonomous District and Regional Councils with legislative, judicial, and executive powers in specified northeastern States.
What are Tribes Advisory Councils?
Under the Fifth Schedule, States with Scheduled Areas have a Tribes Advisory Council to advise on welfare and advancement of Scheduled Tribes, with composition and functions provided by law and presidential orders.
What are Autonomous District Councils?
Under the Sixth Schedule, Autonomous District Councils are bodies in designated tribal areas with powers over specified subjects and with council composition including elected and nominated members, subject to constitutional oversight.
What is Article 244A?
Article 244A provides for the formation of an autonomous State within Assam comprising certain tribal areas, with a council of ministers and legislature as provided by law.
Who can declare or alter Scheduled Areas?
The President may declare areas as Scheduled Areas and alter their boundaries, after consultation with the Governor of the concerned State, under the Fifth Schedule framework.
What are the Governor’s powers regarding tribal areas?
The Governor has roles including reporting on Scheduled Areas administration, and under the Sixth Schedule may organize or reorganize autonomous districts and regions subject to constitutional procedures.