Part I - The Union and its Territory • Article

Article 2A Simplified: Sikkim to be associated with the Union

Article 2A was a temporary provision introduced in 1974 to establish Sikkim's status as an 'Associate State' of India. In 1975, when the people of Sikkim voted via a referendum to fully join the Indian Union, Sikkim was admitted as a normal 22nd state, and Article 2A was officially omitted as it had served its purpose.

Official Text

Omitted by the Constitution (Thirty-sixth Amendment) Act, 1975, s. 5 (w.e.f. 26-4-1975).

Simple Meaning

Explain Like Ten

Article 2A was like a temporary pass for Sikkim to join India's family. Once Sikkim officially became a full member of the family, we didn't need the temporary pass anymore, so it was deleted.

Student Mode

Inserted by the 35th Amendment Act (1974) to create a novel 'Associate State' status for Sikkim. Following a referendum where Sikkim's electorate voted for complete integration, the 36th Amendment Act (1975) admitted Sikkim as a full state and omitted Article 2A.

Example

In 1974, Sikkim wanted to join India but was not yet a full state. Article 2A acted as a temporary stepping stone. When Sikkim became a full state in 1975, the transitional 'Associate State' status was deleted.

Key Takeaway

Article 2A is a historical marker showing Sikkim's transition from a protectorate to a full Indian state.

FAQs

What was the purpose of Article 2A?

It was a transitional provision to associate Sikkim with the Union of India before it officially became a full-fledged state.

Which amendment omitted Article 2A?

The 36th Constitutional Amendment Act of 1975 omitted Article 2A when Sikkim became India's 22nd state.

Why was the 'Associate State' status under Article 2A unique?

The original Constitution did not contain any concept of an 'Associate State'. It was created as a unique transitional status for Sikkim through the 35th Amendment (1974) and was abolished a year later when Sikkim became a full 22nd state of India.

Quiz

Which territory was associated with the Indian Union under the defunct Article 2A?

Answer: Sikkim

Which constitutional amendment omitted Article 2A?

Answer: 36th Amendment

Which constitutional amendment introduced the unique 'Associate State' status for Sikkim?

Answer: 35th Amendment