UPSC Mains Answer: Article 244 of the Indian Constitution relates to the administration of scheduled areas and tribal areas. Analyse the impact of non-implementation of the provisions of the Fifth schedule on the growth of Lefft Wing extremism. [200 words] 10

Difficulty Level: Hard

Pre-requisite: Foundational knowledge of the Fifth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, its historical context (post-independence tribal policy), and the evolution of tribal governance frameworks, including the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA).

Sub-category: Indian Polity and Governance (Constitutional Provisions and Tribal Administration)

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Article 244 of the Indian Constitution, along with the Fifth and Sixth Schedules, provides a robust framework for the administration of Scheduled Areas and Tribal Areas, ensuring self-governance, protection of tribal rights, and prevention of exploitation. The Fifth Schedule, in particular, empowers Tribes Advisory Councils (TACs) and grants Governors special responsibilities to safeguard tribal interests, including land alienation, forest rights, and cultural identity. However, the non-implementation of these provisions has had severe repercussions, most notably fueling the growth of Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) in central and eastern India.
Historically, tribal communities have faced systemic marginalization, displacement due to industrial projects, and encroachment on their lands by non-tribal entities. The failure to enforce the Fifth Schedule has exacerbated these issues, leaving tribal populations vulnerable to exploitation and disenfranchisement. This neglect has created a fertile ground for LWE groups, who exploit tribal grievances by positioning themselves as protectors of tribal rights. The absence of effective governance, coupled with the state’s inability to deliver basic services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure, has further alienated tribal communities, pushing them toward extremist ideologies.
Moreover, the non-implementation of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA), which operationalizes the Fifth Schedule, has weakened grassroots democracy in tribal areas. The lack of devolution of powers to Gram Sabhas has stifled local self-governance, leaving tribal communities without a legitimate platform to address their concerns. This vacuum has been exploited by LWE groups, who offer alternative governance structures, often through coercion and violence.
To counter LWE, it is imperative to strengthen the implementation of the Fifth Schedule and PESA. This includes empowering TACs, ensuring land and forest rights under the Forest Rights Act, 2006, and improving state-led development initiatives. A rights-based approach, coupled with inclusive governance, can restore tribal faith in democratic institutions and undermine the appeal of extremist ideologies.