Question
Consider the following statements:
With reference to the Constitution of India, if an area in a State is declared as Scheduled Area under the Fifth Schedule
I. the State Government loses its executive power in such areas and a local body assumes total administration
II. the Union Government can take over the total administration of such areas under certain circumstances on the recommendations of the Governor
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Explanation
The Fifth Schedule deals with the administration of Scheduled Areas and Scheduled Tribes, with primary control resting with the State but under special constitutional safeguards.
Statement I is incorrect. The State Government retains its executive power in Scheduled Areas. The Governor has special responsibilities, including submitting reports to the President, and a Tribes Advisory Council is constituted. However, no local body replaces the State’s authority.
Statement II is incorrect. There is no provision in the Constitution that allows the Union Government to take over total administration of Scheduled Areas under the Fifth Schedule. The Centre can only issue directions to the State, based on the Governor’s reports.
Thus, both statements are incorrect.