The Constitution of India
Article 331
Representation of the Anglo-Indian Community in the House of the People
Notwithstanding anything in article 81, the President may, if he is of opinion that the Anglo-Indian community is not adequately represented in the House of the People, nominate not more than two members of that community to the House of the People.
Why this exists
The Anglo-Indian community—people of mixed British and Indian ancestry—was a small, dispersed minority unlikely to win Lok Sabha seats through ordinary elections. The Constitution's framers, wanting to ensure this community had a voice in Parliament during India's early years after independence, created this special nomination mechanism. It was meant to be a temporary safeguard, not a permanent feature, reflecting the transitional concerns of a newly independent nation integrating diverse communities.
Common misconceptions
- Myth: Article 331 is still part of the Constitution today.
Fact: It was omitted by the Constitution (104th Amendment) Act, 2019, effective January 25, 2020, ending the practice of nominating Anglo-Indian members to the Lok Sabha. - Myth: The President was required to nominate two Anglo-Indian members every time.
Fact: The Article said the President 'may' nominate up to two members only if he formed the opinion that the community lacked adequate representation—it was discretionary, not mandatory, and the number was a maximum, not a fixed requirement.