Schedule 6 of the Indian Constitution was included as a part of the Constitution through the Constitution (Amendment) Order, 1950. It outlines the provisions for the administration of tribal areas in the states of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram. The Schedule applies to areas where the indigenous population exceeds the non-tribal population.
The provisions of Schedule 6 aim to protect the rights and interests of the tribal people in these areas. It seeks to preserve their culture, customs, and traditions and promote their overall development.
The Schedule provides for the establishment of autonomous district councils in the tribal areas. These councils have legislative, executive, and judicial powers and are responsible for the administration of these areas. The Governor of the state appoints a chairman and a deputy chairman for each council, and the members are elected by the people.
The autonomous councils have the power to make laws on matters such as land, forests, and the use of natural resources. They also have the power to impose taxes and fees and to receive grants-in-aid from the state government. The councils are responsible for the development of the areas under their jurisdiction, including the provision of education, healthcare, and other social welfare measures.
The Schedule also lays down provisions for the protection of the land rights of the tribal people. It prohibits the transfer of tribal land to non-tribals without the prior approval of the Governor. The Schedule also protects the rights of the tribal people over the community land and forests.
In conclusion, Schedule 6 of the Indian Constitution is a crucial provision for the administration of tribal areas in the states of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram. It provides for the establishment of autonomous district councils and aims to protect the rights and interests of the tribal people. The provisions of Schedule 6 seek to preserve the culture, customs, and traditions of the tribal people and promote their overall development.