ARTICLE 244 A - POLITY
News: What is Art 244(A), the
constitutional promise of autonomy driving the election narrative at a tribal
seat in Assam?
What's in the news?
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In the tribal-majority Diphu Lok Sabha constituency
in Assam, candidates representing various political parties have committed to
implementing Article 244(A) of the Constitution.
Article 244(A) of the
Constitution:
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It grants Parliament
the authority to establish an autonomous
region within Assam, potentially encompassing tribal areas such as Karbi
Anglong.
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In this autonomous region, there could be a separate governing body - like a
Legislature or Council of Ministers, or both.
Important Takeaways:
1. Introduction in the
Constitution:
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Article 244(A) was introduced by the Twenty-second Amendment Act of 1969.
2. More Power as
Compared to Sixth Schedule Areas:
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This arrangement represents a significant
advancement compared to the existing governance structure outlined in the Sixth
Schedule.
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Unlike the councils established under the Sixth
Schedule, which have limited authority over law enforcement and financial
matters, Article 244(A) provides for greater
autonomy, particularly in terms of law and order control, to tribal areas.
Go back to basics:
Diphu:
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Diphu is the least densely populated among Assam’s
14 Lok Sabha constituencies.
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It is designated as a reserved constituency for Scheduled Tribes (STs).
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It encompasses six legislative Assembly segments
across three tribal-majority hill districts of Assam - Karbi Anglong, West
Karbi Anglong, and Dima Hasao.
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It is governed under the Sixth Schedule of the
Constitution.
Autonomous Councils:
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These districts are under the jurisdiction of two autonomous councils - the Karbi
Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) and the North Cachar Hills Autonomous
Council.
Population:
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The electorate in this constituency comprises
diverse communities including the Karbi (the third largest tribe in the state),
Dimasa, Hmar, Kuki, Rengma Naga, Zeme Naga, Bodo, Garo, Assamese, Gorkha, and
others.