Part VII: [The States in Part B of the First Schedule]

Omitted by the Constitution (Seventh Amendment) Act, 1956

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[The States in Part B of the First Schedule]. Omitted by the Constitution (Seventh Amendment) Act, 1956, s. 29 and Sch. (w.e.f. 1-11-1956).

Explanations

Part VII of the Constitution of India originally contained provisions for Part B states listed in the First Schedule. These states, largely consisting of former princely states or newly integrated regions after independence, had distinct administrative guidelines. The section was omitted under the Constitution (Seventh Amendment) Act of 1956 to align with the reorganization of states and establish a unified administrative framework.

Historical Context of Part B States

After independence, India inherited territories with varying administrative histories. To integrate these regions effectively, the Constitution categorized states into Part A, Part B, Part C, and Part D. Part B states comprised princely states and regions that had acceded to India. Part VII addressed their administrative needs, reflecting the distinct political and historical challenges of these states.

Amendments and Historical Significance

The Constitution (Seventh Amendment) Act of 1956 restructured India’s states, eliminating the need for separate provisions for Part B states. This amendment unified the federal structure, promoting national unity and administrative cohesion. By treating all states uniformly, the amendment reinforced India’s identity as a cohesive nation-state, free from the colonial legacy of fragmented governance.

Practical Applications

Post-amendment, states like Hyderabad and Mysore (now Karnataka), formerly categorized as Part B states, were integrated into the Indian Union without special provisions. These states adopted the same constitutional provisions as other Indian states, fostering unity and simplifying governance.