Question

Which of the following is correct about the power to alter boundaries between states (relevant to First Schedule and Part

Q: Answer-Which of the following is correct about the power to alter boundaries between states (relevant to Fi...

Article 3 empowers Parliament to form new States, alter boundaries, or change names of existing States. The only procedural safeguard is that the Bill must be referred to the concerned State Legislature for its views, though State consent is not mandatory. This reflects Indias strong Centre-oriented federalism. In Babulal Parate v. State of Bombay and later in Pradeep Chaudhary v. Union of India, the Supreme Court upheld Parliaments wide discretion under Article 3, subject only to limited judicial review. The provision ensures flexibility in territorial reorganization while preserving constitutional procedure.

A Parliament can alter boundaries of states by simple legislation under Article 3, but when the Bill affects a state it must be referred to that state legislature for its views.

B State boundaries cannot be altered once notified in First Schedule.

C Alteration of state boundaries requires a constitutional referendum.

D High Courts can change state boundaries on representation petitions.

E The President can change boundaries by ordinance.

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