Article 242: Provisions for Parliament to Provide Legal Framework
Repealed
Explanation:
Article 242 originally provided the framework for Parliament to make laws with respect to the administration of certain Union territories. However, it has been repealed, and its functions have been integrated into other parts of the Constitution or addressed through subsequent amendments.
Key Points:
- Repeal: Article 242 has been repealed and is no longer in effect. Its original purpose was to allow Parliament to create a legal framework for the administration of specific Union territories.
- Integration into Other Provisions: The administrative functions originally covered by Article 242 have been integrated into other articles or addressed through new constitutional amendments and laws.
Important Cases and Commissions Related to Article 242
Cases:
- No specific landmark cases related to Article 242, as it has been repealed.
Commissions:
- Law Commission of India: May have reviewed the implications of repealing Article 242 and recommended alternative legal frameworks for the administration of Union territories.
Important Reports Related to Article 242:
- Administrative Reforms Commission: Could have explored the need for a unified legal framework for Union territories and suggested reforms post-repeal of Article 242.
Previous Year Prelims Questions Related to Article 242
- (UPSC Prelims 2016) What was the original purpose of Article 242 in the Indian Constitution?
- A. To provide special status to certain states
- B. To allow Parliament to make laws for the administration of Union territories
- C. To define the powers of the Supreme Court
- D. To outline financial relations between the Union and the States Correct Answer: B. To allow Parliament to make laws for the administration of Union territories
- (UPSC Prelims 2018) What happened to Article 242 in the Indian Constitution?
- A. It was amended
- B. It was repealed
- C. It was expanded
- D. It was renamed Correct Answer: B. It was repealed
Previous Year Mains Questions Related to Article 242
- Mains 2016: “Discuss the impact of the repeal of Article 242 on the administration of Union territories in India. How has the legal framework evolved post-repeal?”
- Mains 2019: “Evaluate the necessity of a unified legal framework for Union territories in the context of the repeal of Article 242. What measures have been taken to address administrative challenges?”
Additional Insights:
- Constitutional Adaptability: The repeal of Article 242 signifies the Constitution’s ability to adapt and evolve to meet changing administrative needs and challenges.
- Unified Legal Framework: Post-repeal, there has been a focus on creating a more integrated and cohesive legal framework for the administration of Union territories, ensuring efficient governance.
Understanding the repeal of Article 242 is crucial for UPSC aspirants as it highlights the dynamic nature of the Indian Constitution and the evolving legal framework for the administration of Union territories. This knowledge is essential for both preliminary and main examinations, providing insights into the adaptability and responsiveness of the constitutional framework to governance needs.