Understanding the Unique Provision
The Indian Constitution, in its original form, uniquely provided special parliamentary and state legislative representation for the Anglo-Indian community through nomination. This mechanism aimed to ensure their voice was heard, recognizing their distinct identity and potentially insufficient representation through general elections.
Initially set for a decade, these provisions were continuously extended alongside reservations for Scheduled Castes and Tribes. However, a pivotal change occurred with the 104th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2019. This Act marked the end of an era, as the special representation for Anglo-Indians was not extended beyond January 25, 2020, fundamentally altering the political landscape for this community.
The Original Mandate (Now Ceased)
Nomination to Lok Sabha
Original Provision: The President was empowered to nominate not more than two members of the Anglo-Indian community to the House of the People (Lok Sabha) if he deemed their representation inadequate.
Purpose: To ensure the political voice of a small, distinct community, who might otherwise struggle to secure representation through general elections.
Nomination to State Assemblies
Original Provision: Similarly, the Governor of a State could nominate one member of the Anglo-Indian community to the respective State Legislative Assembly, if inadequate representation was observed.
Purpose: This parallel provision aimed to secure representation and give a voice to the community at the state level.
The End of a Special Era: 104th Amendment
Initial Duration (Article 334)
Provisions originally set to cease after ten years from Constitution's commencement (by Jan 25, 1960).
Successive Extensions
Extended repeatedly for ten-year periods, aligning with reservations for SCs and STs, through various Constitutional Amendment Acts.
The 104th Amendment Act, 2019
Extended SC/ST reservations for another 10 years (until Jan 25, 2030).
Non-Extension for Anglo-Indians
Crucially, this Act did not extend the nomination provisions for the Anglo-Indian community (Articles 331 & 333).
Cessation Date
The special provision officially ceased to operate from January 25, 2020. No nominated Anglo-Indian members now.
Prelims-Ready Notes: Quick Glance
Lok Sabha Nomination
Original: President could nominate max 2 Anglo-Indians (Art 331).
NOW CEASED.
State Assemblies Nomination
Original: Governor could nominate 1 Anglo-Indian (Art 333).
NOW CEASED.
Cessation Event
By 104th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2019.
Effective: Jan 25, 2020.
SC/ST vs. Anglo-Indians
Act extended SC/ST reservation for 10 years (till 2030).
Did NOT extend for Anglo-Indians.
Overview Table: Anglo-Indian Representation (Now Ceased)
| Aspect | Lok Sabha (Art 331) | State Legislative Assemblies (Art 333) | Duration (Art 334) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original Provision | President could nominate max 2 Anglo-Indians. | Governor could nominate 1 Anglo-Indian. | Initially 10 years from Constitution's commencement. |
| Purpose | Ensure representation for inadequately represented community. | Ensure representation at state level. | Time-bound special provision. |
| Current Status | CEASED (Jan 25, 2020) | CEASED (Jan 25, 2020) | Not extended by 104th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2019. |
| Reason for Cessation | The 104th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2019, extended SC/ST reservations but explicitly did NOT extend the Anglo-Indian nomination provisions (Articles 331 & 333). | ||