Union Territories (UTs) are regions in India governed directly by the central government. They differ from states, which have their own governments. UTs are established for various reasons, including cultural preservation and administrative efficiency.
Historical Background
The concept of Union Territories was introduced in 1956 under the States Reorganisation Act. The Seventh Amendment to the Constitution facilitated their establishment. Initially, India had six UTs, including Delhi and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Current Union Territories
India currently has eight Union Territories:
- Delhi
- Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- Chandigarh
- Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu
- Jammu and Kashmir
- Ladakh
- Lakshadweep
- Puducherry
Administration of Union Territories
The President of India administers UTs through appointed administrators. These can be Lieutenant Governors, Chief Commissioners, or Administrators. The President has the discretion to appoint these officials.
Legislative Powers
Some UTs, like Delhi and Puducherry, have legislative assemblies. They can make laws on matters listed in the Constitution’s Seventh Schedule. However, certain subjects require prior approval from the central government.
Special Provisions for Delhi and Puducherry
Delhi and Puducherry enjoy a degree of autonomy. Their legislative assemblies can legislate on various subjects. However, specific entries in List II of the Seventh Schedule are excluded from their legislative power.
Financial Management
Union Territories do not have a uniform financial system. The central government allocates funds without a fixed formula. This leads to discrepancies in financial support among different UTs.
Taxation in Union Territories
Union Territories without legislatures are subject to UT-GST. This tax is applied at the same rate as the state GST. The introduction of GST standardised taxation across UTs.
Constitutional Articles Governing UTs
Articles 239 to 241 of the Constitution of India outline the governance of Union Territories. Article 239 states that the President is responsible for their administration. Article 239A allows for the creation of legislatures for certain UTs.
Differences Between States and Union Territories
States have their own elected governments and greater autonomy. In contrast, UTs are governed by administrators appointed by the central government. This creates a unitary relationship between UTs and the Union Government.
Legislative Variations Among UTs
Most UTs lack their own legislatures. Only Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, and Puducherry have elected legislative bodies. This distinction affects the democratic representation of residents in UTs.
Concerns Regarding Democratic Representation
Citizens in UTs often lack sufficient democratic representation. Many UTs do not have assemblies with full legislative powers. This undermines the democratic rights of residents, limiting their ability to hold the government accountable.
Historical Context of Union Territories
The formation of UTs was initially justified by their unique cultural or geographical contexts. Over time, some territories have transitioned to full statehood, raising questions about the relevance of these criteria .
Structural Vulnerabilities of Union Territories
The governance structure of UTs allows for central government influence. This can lead to instability and hinder the development of local governance.
Issues with Legislative Composition
The composition of some UT legislatures includes nominated members. This can dilute democratic representation. The predominance of nominated members raises concerns about accountability.
Role of Administrators in UTs
Administrators hold substantial power in UTs. They can overrule decisions made by elected councils. This dynamic often leads to tensions between administrators and local governments.
Notable Conflicts in UT Governance
Conflicts between administrators and elected officials are common. In Puducherry and Delhi, disputes have arisen over governance and administrative decisions, denoting the tensions in UT administration.
Unique Features of Union Territories
NCT of Delhi has a separate High Court, the only UT to do so. Other UTs lack representation in the Rajya Sabha, except for Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, and Puducherry.
Future of Union Territories
The future of UTs may involve further transitions to statehood. The evolving political landscape may prompt reassessments of their status. Ongoing discussions about representation and governance continue to shape their trajectory.
