B) Article 371B

Special Provisions for the State of Assam

Article 371B of the Constitution of India deals with the special provisions for the State of Assam. Let's understand the details of this article and why it is the correct answer.

1. Introduction:
- Article 371B was inserted into the Constitution through the Constitution (Twenty-Second Amendment) Act, 1969.
- It was added to provide certain special provisions for the State of Assam to safeguard its cultural, social, and economic interests.

2. Protection and Preservation of Assamese Language:
- Article 371B ensures the preservation and protection of the Assamese language.
- It empowers the President to provide for the establishment of a separate State Public Service Commission for Assam.
- The aim is to ensure that the recruitment of civil servants in the state reflects the linguistic and regional diversity of Assam.

3. Reservation in Legislative Assembly:
- Article 371B provides for the reservation of seats in the Legislative Assembly of Assam.
- It states that the number of seats to be reserved for Scheduled Tribes in the Assembly shall be proportionate to their population in the state.
- This provision helps in ensuring the representation of tribal communities in the legislative body.

4. Constitutional Safeguards:
- Article 371B includes safeguards to protect the interests of the people of Assam.
- These safeguards include the creation of autonomous regions in the state.
- It allows for the formation of autonomous councils with appropriate powers and functions to protect the rights of the tribal population.

5. Special Provision for Land:
- Article 371B also provides for the ownership and transfer of land in the state.
- It safeguards the interests of the indigenous people of Assam by restricting the transfer of land from them to non-indigenous individuals or communities.
- The aim is to prevent the alienation of land belonging to the indigenous people and preserve their cultural and social identity.

In conclusion, Article 371B of the Constitution of India deals with the special provisions for the State of Assam. It ensures the preservation of the Assamese language, reservation of seats in the Legislative Assembly, creation of autonomous regions, and safeguards for land ownership. These provisions aim to protect the cultural, social, and economic interests of the people of Assam.