Historical Background:
Assam did not have a separate democratic institution under the Indian Councils Act, 1861.
In 1905, Assam was grouped with East Bengal; the joint body was named the Legislative Council of Eastern Bengal and Assam, functional from December 18, 1906.
1909: Out of 40 seats, Assam was allotted 5 in the reconstituted council.
Formation of Assam Legislative Council:
1912: Assam became a Chief Commissioner’s province.
Under Government of India Act, 1909, the Assam Legislative Council was created in 1913 with 34 members (13 nominated, 21 elected).
First session: 6 January 1913, presided by Sir Archdale Earle in Shillong.
Expansion and Reforms:
Government of India Act, 1919: Council strength raised to 53 members (41 elected, 12 nominated).
Government of India Act, 1935:
Created a bicameral legislature in Assam.
Legislative Assembly: 108 elected members.
Legislative Council: 21–22 members.
First sitting: 7 April 1937, in Shillong.
Post-Independence Changes:
1947: Sylhet transferred to East Pakistan; Assembly strength reduced to 71.
Post-Independence: Strength increased back to 108.
1947: Legislative Council abolished; Assembly became unicameral.
Territorial and Political Reorganization:
Assam saw state reorganization over decades:
1963: Nagaland created.
1971: Meghalaya (via NE Reorganization Act).
Later: Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh.
1972: Capital shifted from Shillong to Dispur, Guwahati.
First session in Dispur: 16 March 1973.
Fluctuation in Strength:
1952–57: 108 members.
1957–62: 105 members.
1967–72: 114 members.
1972–78 onwards: 126 members.
Tenure and Leadership:
As per Article 172, the Assembly has a 5-year term.
Exception: 5th Assembly lasted 6 years due to 1975 National Emergency.
Basanta Kumar Das was the first Speaker of the Assembly.
This summary helps cover the historical evolution, constitutional framework, political restructuring, and leadership relevant to the Assam Legislative Assembly, suitable for GS Paper II or Assam-specific questions in APSC Mains.
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