Why this matters now
UTs — their administration, the LG’s role, and the Delhi/J&K special arrangements — are tested in prelims and GS-2, and are topical after recent reorganisations.
Administration of UTs
Union Territories are administered by the President through an Administrator (designated Lieutenant Governor or Administrator) under Article 239. They are centrally governed — unlike states, which have their own elected governments with autonomy.
UTs with and without legislatures
Most UTs have no legislature (the Centre rules directly). But Delhi (NCT), Puducherry and Jammu & Kashmir have legislative assemblies and councils of ministers — with limited powers (the Centre/LG retains significant authority, especially over police, land and public order in Delhi). Delhi (NCT) has a special status under Article 239AA.
Recent reorganisation
The Jammu & Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 reorganised the former state of J&K into two UTs — Jammu & Kashmir (with a legislature) and Ladakh (without) — following the abrogation of Article 370’s special status. The Centre can also create, merge or alter states/UTs under Article 3.
UPSC angle
Know UT administration (President via LG/Administrator, Art 239), UTs with legislatures (Delhi/Puducherry/J&K) vs without, Delhi’s special status (Art 239AA), and the J&K Reorganisation Act 2019.
Frequently asked questions
How are Union Territories administered?
By the President through an Administrator or Lieutenant Governor, under Article 239.
Which UTs have legislatures?
Delhi (NCT), Puducherry and Jammu & Kashmir.
What is special about Delhi’s status?
Delhi (NCT) has a special constitutional status under Article 239AA, though the Centre retains key powers.
What did the J&K Reorganisation Act 2019 do?
It reorganised the former state of Jammu & Kashmir into two Union Territories — J&K (with a legislature) and Ladakh (without).