Background
- Added in 1949 on the recommendation of the Bordoloi Committee.
- It is contained in Articles 244(2) and 275(1) of the Constitution.
- Provides for special administrative arrangements in certain tribal areas of Northeastern states to preserve their distinct culture, traditions, and self-governance.
Applicability
The Sixth Schedule currently applies to:
- Assam
- Meghalaya
- Tripura
- Mizoram
(Other North-Eastern states like Nagaland, Manipur, and Arunachal Pradesh have different special provisions under Article 371).
Key Features
- Autonomous District Councils (ADCs)
- Established in tribal areas for self-governance.
- Each ADC has up to 30 members (26 elected, 4 nominated by Governor).
- Tenure: 5 years.
- Powers of ADCs
- Can make laws on:
- Land, forest, water, shifting cultivation.
- Village administration, inheritance of property, marriage & divorce, social customs.
- They also have judicial powers to constitute courts for trial of certain cases involving tribal members.
- Autonomous Regions
- If different tribes live in an Autonomous District, the Governor may create separate Autonomous Regions for each tribe.
- Governor’s Role
- The Governor has wide powers:
- Approves laws passed by District Councils.
- Can dissolve a District Council.
- Adjusts financial grants from the Centre under Article 275.
- Financial Powers
- District Councils can levy and collect certain taxes like land revenue, tolls, markets, entry of goods, etc.
Significance
- Protects tribal rights and culture.
- Ensures local self-governance.
- Reduces conflict by granting autonomy.
Limitations
- Demand for extension of the Sixth Schedule to other states (like Arunachal, Manipur).
- Some argue it has led to ethnic tensions due to autonomous councils being dominated by majority tribes.
- Dual authority (Governor vs ADCs) sometimes causes friction.