Ladakh Demands Sixth Schedule Status, MHA Proposes Directly Elected Body
GS2Polity · Governance · IR· Constitution, amendments & basic structure· Prelims + Mains·
Federalism and internal security: a GS2 case study on Union Territory governance and constitutional autonomy.
Why in news
The Ministry of Home Affairs proposed a directly elected legislative body and a new Article 371-K for Ladakh as an alternative to the Sixth Schedule status demanded by local residents.
Background
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is considering a directly elected legislative body for Ladakh. The proposal includes the introduction of Article 371-K to balance local autonomy with national security requirements in the region.
Facts for Prelims
- BodyMinistry of Home Affairs (MHA): The central ministry responsible for internal security and the administration of Union Territories.
- FactArticle 371-K: A proposed constitutional provision to provide for local governance in Ladakh while maintaining territorial integrity.
Prelims practice question
Which ministry is responsible for the administration of Union Territories and internal security in India?
- (a)Ministry of External Affairs
- (b)Ministry of Finance
- (c)Ministry of Home Affairs
- (d)Ministry of Defence
Show answer
Answer: (c) Ministry of Home Affairs — The Ministry of Home Affairs is the central ministry responsible for internal security and the administration of Union Territories.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the constitutional challenges and security implications of granting Sixth Schedule status to Union Territories in border regions.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Security-Autonomy Paradox: Balancing local self-governance with the strategic necessity of maintaining a unified command in border zones.
- Constitutional Innovation: Evaluating the efficacy of specific state-wise articles (like 371-K) versus the collective autonomy of the Sixth Schedule.
- Democratic Representation: Addressing the demand for direct legislative participation versus the limitations of existing UT administrative structures.
Keywords: Constitutional Autonomy · Territorial Integrity · Federalism · Strategic Security · Local Governance
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