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Evolution of UTs
1874: Scheduled districts → Chief Commissioner Provinces Part ‘C’ and Part ‘D’ States (post-independence)1956 (7th Amendment): Created Union Territories (UTs)
Administrative System of UTs
NO uniform system of administration across UTs .Parliament has supreme legislative power over UTs (even those with a Legislative Assembly ).However, if a UT law receives the President’s assent , it prevails unless overridden by Parliament .
President’s Powers Over UTs
Can make regulations for A&N Islands, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Daman & Diu, and Lakshadweep .For Puducherry: Regulations only when Assembly is suspended or dissolved .These regulations can repeal or amend any Act of Parliament applicable to UTs.
Other Provisions
The Constitution does NOT mention “Acquired Territories” , but UT provisions are applied to them .
Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) is the nodal ministry for UT administration.Home Minister’s Advisory Committee (HMAC) :Chairperson: Union Home Minister .Administrator’s Advisory Committee (AAC): Chairperson: Respective Administrator .Members: MPs & Local Body Representatives .
DELHI – Special Provisions (69th CAA, 1991) Chief Minister & Lt. Governor (LG) Powers
CM of Delhi is appointed by the President .Lt. Governor (LG) Ordinance Powers :Can issue ordinances ONLY with prior permission of the President .
CANNOT promulgate ordinances if Assembly is dissolved or suspended .
President’s Rule in Delhi (Article 239AB)
President can impose his rule if there is constitutional failure in Delhi.Similar to Article 356 (President’s Rule in states).
Lt. Governor’s Powers Over Delhi Assembly
Summon, Prorogue, or Dissolve the Assembly .Address the Assembly :
First session after elections .First session of every year .
70th CAA (1992)
Elected members of the Delhi Assembly are included in the Presidential Election process .
