NationalWednesday, 13 May 2026·The Hindu - National
Anti-defection law: Article 102/191 and Tenth Schedule basics for TNPSC
A The Hindu explainer on the anti-defection law highlights the two main grounds for disqualification under the Tenth Schedule.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In May 2026, The Hindu explained how the anti-defection law operates in the AIADMK case, focusing on the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution and the two disqualification grounds under Articles 102 and 191.
Key specifics
- The Tenth Schedule was inserted by the 52nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1985.
- Disqualification applies if a member voluntarily gives up membership of a political party.
- It also applies if a member votes or abstains from voting against the party’s direction.
- Articles 102(2) and 191(2) deal with disqualification of MPs and MLAs respectively.
- The AIADMK case was discussed as a live example of the law’s operation in Tamil Nadu politics.
Exam lens
Polity match-the-following, Tenth Schedule, Articles 102 and 191, 52nd Amendment, voluntary giving up membership, voting against party whip — a classic TNPSC question on defection and legislative discipline.