Part XI - Union-State Relations • Article

Article 260 Simplified: Jurisdiction of the Union in relation to territories outside India

Article 260 authorizes the Government of India to take over and exercise legislative, executive, or judicial functions in territories outside India through bilateral agreements with the governments of those territories.

Official Text

The Government of India may by agreement with the Government of any territory not being part of the territory of India undertake any executive, legislative or judicial functions vested in the Government of such territory, but every such agreement shall be subject to, and governed by, any law relating to the exercise of foreign jurisdiction for the time being in force.

Simple Meaning

Explain Like Ten

The central government can enter into agreements with other countries or foreign lands to run their local administration, make laws, or handle courts for them temporarily.

Student Mode

Article 260 permits the Government of India to undertake executive, legislative, or judicial functions in territories outside India by agreement with their governments. Such agreements must comply with India's laws regarding foreign jurisdiction (such as the Foreign Jurisdiction Act, 1947). This provides a constitutional framework for administering trans-national enclaves or foreign territories during transitions.

Example

When the enclave of Chandernagore (a French territory) was in transition before officially merging with India, the Indian government took over its local administration by agreement under Article 260.

Key Takeaway

Article 260 provides a constitutional mechanism for the Union to exercise governance and administration over foreign territories by agreement.

FAQs

What is an example of the application of Article 260?

It was used during transition periods before territories like Chandernagore or Pondicherry were officially integrated into the Union of India.

What law governs the agreements made under Article 260?

Every such agreement is subject to and governed by Indian laws relating to the exercise of foreign jurisdiction.

Quiz

Under Article 260, the Government of India can undertake functions in relation to:

Answer: Territories outside India

Which functions can the Union Government undertake in foreign territories under Article 260?

Answer: Executive, legislative, and judicial functions