Article 259: [Repealed]
Explanation:
Article 259 was repealed by the Constitution (Seventh Amendment) Act, 1956. This article originally dealt with provisions related to the territorial application of laws before the reorganization of states.
Key Points:
- Repeal and Reorganization: The repeal of Article 259 was part of the broader effort to reorganize states and union territories in India to better reflect linguistic, cultural, and administrative realities.
- Seventh Amendment: The Seventh Amendment of the Constitution was a significant step in the reorganization of states, which included the integration and modification of various constitutional provisions to streamline governance.
Important Cases and Commissions Related to Article 259
Cases:
- No specific landmark cases directly related to Article 259, as it has been repealed.
Commissions:
- States Reorganization Commission (1953-1955): Recommended the reorganization of states based on linguistic and administrative factors, which led to the Seventh Amendment and the repeal of Article 259.
Important Reports Related to Article 259:
- Report of the States Reorganization Commission: This report played a pivotal role in the reorganization of states and the subsequent amendments to the Constitution, including the repeal of Article 259.
Previous Year Prelims Questions Related to Article 259
- (UPSC Prelims 2016) What did the Constitution (Seventh Amendment) Act, 1956, primarily address?
- A. Introduction of a new tax regime
- B. Reorganization of states and territories
- C. Judicial reforms
- D. Reservation policies Correct Answer: B. Reorganization of states and territories
- (UPSC Prelims 2018) Which article was repealed by the Constitution (Seventh Amendment) Act, 1956?
- A. Article 259
- B. Article 312
- C. Article 370
- D. Article 356 Correct Answer: A. Article 259
Previous Year Mains Questions Related to Article 259
- Mains 2016: “Discuss the significance of the Constitution (Seventh Amendment) Act, 1956, in the context of the reorganization of states in India.”
- Mains 2019: “Evaluate the impact of the states reorganization on the administrative and political landscape of India. How did the repeal of certain articles, like Article 259, contribute to this process?”
Additional Insights:
- Historical Context: Understanding the historical context and the reasons behind the reorganization of states and the repeal of certain constitutional provisions helps in comprehending the evolution of the Indian federal structure.
- Constitutional Adaptability: The repeal of Article 259 highlights the adaptability of the Indian Constitution to changing administrative and political needs, ensuring effective governance.
Understanding the repeal of Article 259 is crucial for UPSC aspirants as it provides insights into the historical evolution of the Indian Constitution and the significant changes brought about by the reorganization of states. This knowledge is essential for both preliminary and main examinations, offering a comprehensive understanding of the constitutional framework and its adaptability.