AMN
The two new union Territories of J&K and Ladakh have come into existence today on the birth anniversary of the iron man of India, Sardar Patel. The move follows a decision by the centre to abrogate Article 370 and 35A of the constitution on 15th August this year.
Under the provision, Union Territory will have an elected assembly and chief minister on the lines of Puducherry. Ladakh will be a UT on the lines of Andaman and Nickobar, directly governed by Lieutenant Governor. The Legislative Council of the state of Jammu and Kashmir has been abolished. The J&K assembly will be reconstituted after de-limitation of the seat. Ladakh will have to Hill council directly under LG. The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir will be common for both the Ladakh, and Jammu and Kashmir.
The Scheduled Lists of 106 central laws will be applicable to the two newly carved Union Territories. These include the Aadhaar Act, 2016, the Indian Penal Code, 1860, and the Right to Education Act, 2009. Bodies such as the SC commission, ST commission and Minority commission will be set up in both the UTs.