Art. 2A Part I: Union and its Territory

(Repealed) Sikkim's Association With the Union

Exact text — Constitution of India

[This Article, inserted by the 35th Amendment, 1974 to give Sikkim the status of an 'Associate State' of India, was repealed by the 36th Amendment, 1975, when Sikkim was instead made a full State of India — added to the First Schedule and given Rajya Sabha/Lok Sabha representation like any other state.]

In Plain English

What this Article actually means

Sikkim's integration into India happened in two constitutional steps within a single year — first, this Article created a unique intermediate 'Associate State' status in 1974, and then, following a 1975 referendum in Sikkim in favour of full merger, this Article was repealed and Sikkim became India's 22nd state through the 36th Amendment, which instead added it directly to Article 1's First Schedule.

Why This Matters To You

How it shows up in everyday life

This short-lived Article is a useful example of the Constitution being amended in real time to accommodate a genuinely novel political situation — Sikkim's unique history (it was previously a separate protectorate under Indian suzerainty, not part of British India) meant its integration didn't fit neatly into the existing Article 2/3 framework, requiring this temporary special provision.

Read alongside this one

Art. 1 — Name and Territory of the Union Art. 371f — Special Provisions for Sikkim

Frequently Asked

Quick answers about Article 2A

Does Sikkim still have any special constitutional status today?

Yes, separately — Article 371F (Part XXI) preserves specific protections for Sikkim, distinct from this repealed Article, covering things like protection of existing Sikkimese laws and legislative arrangements.

← PreviousArticle 2: Admission or Establishment of New States Next →Article 3: Formation of New States and Alteration of Areas, Boundaries or Names of Existing States

The text above reproduces Article 2A of the Constitution of India as amended to date, for general educational reference. It is public-domain legislative text, but we recommend cross-checking the authoritative version at legislative.gov.in or india.gov.in before relying on it for a legal matter. The explanation, examples and FAQs are general information, not legal advice — consult a qualified advocate for guidance on your specific situation.