Home The Constitution Part XVII Article 349

Art. 349 Part XVII: Official Language

Special Procedure for Enactment of Certain Laws Relating to Language

Exact text — Constitution of India

During the period of fifteen years from the commencement of this Constitution, no Bill or amendment making provision for the language to be used for any of the purposes mentioned in clause (1) of article 348 shall be introduced or moved in either House of Parliament without the previous sanction of the President, and the President shall, before giving his sanction... take into consideration the recommendations of the Commission referred to in article 344...

In Plain English

What this Article actually means

A transitional safeguard limited to the Constitution's first 15 years — during that sensitive early period, any Bill touching on the language used for official legal purposes (per Article 348) required the President's prior sanction, informed by the Article 344 Commission's recommendations, ensuring careful, expert-informed handling of this politically sensitive subject during the young Republic's formative years.

Why This Matters To You

How it shows up in everyday life

Since this Article's 15-year window has long since expired (in 1965), it's now a purely historical provision — but it illustrates how carefully the framers tried to insulate language policy from hasty political decisions during India's early, potentially volatile transition period.

Read alongside this one

Art. 344 — Commission and Committee on Official Language

Frequently Asked

Quick answers about Article 349

Is this Article still operative today?

No — its 15-year window expired in 1965; it's now a historical provision without ongoing legal effect, though it remains part of the Constitution's text.

← PreviousArticle 348: Language to Be Used in the Supreme Court and in the High Courts and for Acts, Bills, etc.Next →Article 350: Language to Be Used in Representations for Redress of Grievances

The text above reproduces Article 349 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.