Part XXI - Temporary, Transitional and Special Provisions • Article

Article 385 Simplified: Provision as to provisional Legislatures in States in Part B of the First Schedule

Article 385 originally allowed the legislative bodies of the integrated former princely states (Part B states like Hyderabad, Mysore, and Travancore-Cochin) to serve as provisional State Legislatures from 1950 until the first general elections in 1952. It was omitted by the 7th Amendment in 1956.

Official Text

Omitted by the Constitution (Seventh Amendment) Act, 1956, s. 29 and Sch. (w.e.f. 1-11-1956).

Simple Meaning

Explain Like Ten

When former royal kingdoms (princely states) joined India in 1950, they needed a way to write rules. This old rule let their existing local councils act as temporary state parliaments until real elections could be held. It was deleted in 1956.

Student Mode

Article 385 was a transitional provision that allowed the legislative bodies or authorities of former princely states (Part B states, such as Mysore, Hyderabad, and Madhya Bharat) to serve as provisional State Legislatures from January 26, 1950, until elected assemblies took office in 1952. It was repealed by the 7th Amendment in 1956.

Example

Between 1950 and 1952, before citizens in Mysore voted in the first general elections, the interim legislative assembly of the Mysore princely state continued to function as the state's provisional legislature under Article 385.

Key Takeaway

A repealed article that designated the legislative bodies of former princely states (Part B states) as provisional legislatures until 1952.

FAQs

What were Part B states?

Part B states were former princely states or unions of princely states (like Hyderabad, Mysore, and Rajasthan) that integrated into the Indian Union and were governed by a Rajpramukh (former ruler acting as governor) and an assembly.

Did Hyderabad have a provisional legislature under Article 385?

Yes. Until the first general election in 1952, Hyderabad's legislative affairs were managed by the military governor and subsequently the civilian administration council, which acted as the authority under Article 385.

Quiz

Which category of states had their provisional legislatures established under Article 385?

Answer: Part B States (princely states)

Which of the following was a Part B state governed by Article 385?

Answer: Mysore