UPSC Previous Year Question | Prelims GS | 2025

Consider the following statements: With reference to the Constitution of India, if the Fifth Schedule area in a State is declared as a Scheduled Area, then I. In such areas, the State Government loses its executive power and a local body assumes total administration. II. The Government of the Union can, under certain circumstances, take over the total administration of such areas on the recommendations of the Governor. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. Only I
  2. Only II
  3. I and II both
  4. Neither I nor II

Answer

Correct Answer

Only II

Explanation

In Scheduled Areas under the Fifth Schedule, the State Government does not automatically lose executive power to a local body; rather, the Governor has special powers to regulate the applicability of laws and administration (Statement I incorrect). However, under Article 244 read with the Fifth Schedule, the Union Government can, on the Governor's report/recommendation, assume responsibility for the administration of Scheduled Areas under certain circumstances (Statement II correct).

Topics: fifth schedule, polity, scheduled areas