Question
Which of the following is true regarding the role of the
President in promulgating regulations for Scheduled Areas under Article 244(1) of the Constitution?Solution
Under Article 244(1) read with the Fifth Schedule, the President plays a supervisory role in the administration of Scheduled Areas. The Governor submits reports to the President regarding the administration of such areas, and the President may issue directions. This layered control mechanism reflects constitutional concern for the protection of Scheduled Tribes against exploitation. In Samatha v. State of Andhra Pradesh, the Supreme Court emphasized that tribal welfare is a constitutional priority and that executive actions inconsistent with Fifth Schedule protections are invalid. Presidential oversight thus reinforces constitutional trusteeship over tribal interests.