Puducherry’s Legislative Assembly, Sikkim’s Paperless Courts & Key Constitutional Provisions – UPSC Polity Quiz Review

Key Takeaways from the Daily Polity Quiz (May 2026) This article summarises five multiple‑choice questions that appeared in the UPSC Essentials daily quiz. Each question tests knowledge of constitutional provisions, recent judicial reforms and the institutional framework of Union Territories (UTs) and local bodies – core topics for GS 2 (Polity) and GS 1 (History & Constitution). Key Developments Puducherry is a Union Territory with a Legislative Assembly . The arrangement is protected by Article 239A . The territory was transferred from French rule by the Treaty of Cession (1956) , not from Portugal. Sikkim has become the nation’s first paperless state judiciary , as announced by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant during the National Conclave on Technology and Judicial Education. Article 361 protects the personal immunity of the President and Governors, but does not shield the *office* of the Governor from judicial review of constitutional inaction. The State Election Commission oversees elections to Municipalities, Municipal Corporations and Panchayats. Article 24 bans child labour in factories and mines, reinforcing the Right against Exploitation. Important Facts • Puducherry’s assembly powers are extensive, yet any law can be overridden by Parliament. Currently, only Delhi, Puducherry and Jammu & Kashmir have legislatures among UTs. • The paperless initiative in Sikkim aims to reduce case pendency and improve access to justice, aligning with the e‑Courts project. UPS​C Relevance Understanding the nuanced status of UTs, the scope of Articles 239A, 361 and 24, and the role of the SEC is essential for both prelims (fact‑based) and mains (essay‑type) questions. Recent reforms such as Sikkim’s paperless courts illustrate the intersection of technology with governance – a recurring theme in GS 2 and GS 3. Way Forward for Aspirants Memorise the list of UTs with legislatures (Delhi, Puducherry, J&K) and the constitutional articles that empower them. Track ongoing digital‑justice initiatives (e‑Courts, paperless courts) as they frequently appear in current‑affairs sections. Review the distinction between personal immunity (Article 361) and institutional accountability of Governors. Re‑visit the functions of the SEC under Article 243K to answer questions on local self‑government. Recall Article 24’s specific age limit (14 years) and its placement under the Right against Exploitation. Regular revision of these constitutional provisions, coupled with monitoring of recent judicial reforms, will strengthen your preparation for both the prelims and mains of the UPSC Civil Services Examination.