Home The Constitution Part XIV Article 313

Art. 313 Part XIV: Services Under the Union and the States

Transitional Provisions

Exact text — Constitution of India

Until other provision is made in this behalf under this Constitution, all the laws in force immediately before the commencement of this Constitution and applicable to any public service or any post which continues to exist after the commencement of this Constitution, as an all-India service or as a service or post under the Union or a State, shall continue in force so far as consistent with the provisions of this Constitution.

In Plain English

What this Article actually means

A standard bridging provision — it kept pre-1950 civil service laws in force for existing services and posts that continued after the Constitution's commencement, avoiding a governance gap while new, specifically constitutional legislation could be developed under Articles 309 and 312.

Why This Matters To You

How it shows up in everyday life

This Article's practical effect is now largely historical, having managed the one-time transition from British-era civil service law to the new constitutional framework — but it illustrates the careful continuity-planning built into the Constitution's transitional design.

Read alongside this one

Art. 309 — Recruitment and Conditions of Service

Frequently Asked

Quick answers about Article 313

Is this Article still operationally significant today?

Its direct transitional effect (bridging 1950-era continuity) is now historical; modern civil service law operates under legislation and rules made specifically under Articles 309 and 312.

← PreviousArticle 312: All-India Services Next →Article 314: (Repealed) Provision for Protection of Existing Officers of Certain Services

The text above reproduces Article 313 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.