The Anglo-Indian Reservation in Parliament: An Expose

The Anglo-Indian reservation in the Indian Parliament is a controversial topic that reflects the nuanced history of Britain's colonial past in India. This article delves into the origins, evolution, and significance of this unique political representation, revealing the broader context of colonial influence and beneficiary communities.

Anglo-Indian Community: Historical Formation and Significance

The Anglo-Indian community emerged in the 17th century with the arrival of the British East India Company in India. Children born to unions between British and Indian parents became a distinct ethnic group, integrating elements of both cultures. By the time of India's independence, this community comprised around 125,000 to 150,000 people, occupying significant administrative roles in various sectors.

Historical Context and Evolution

The first use of the term 'Anglo-Indian' emerged in the late 17th century, reflecting a new identity that was both uniquely Indian and British-influenced. The community’s identification and acceptance by the British were strong until 1791, when they were systematically excluded from higher administrative roles. Later, during the 1857 First War of Independence, Anglo-Indians aligned themselves with the British, ensuring preferential treatment in strategic services like railways and postal services. By 1919, the community had become a powerful political force, securing a permanent seat in the Central Legislative Assembly.

Frank Anthony's Role and Legacy

The pivotal figure in the Anglo-Indian community's political representation was Frank Anthony. In 1942, Anthony was elected the president of the All India Anglo-Indian Association and went on to reshape the community's perspective over five decades until his death in 1993. His political influence was particularly significant during India's constitutional formation. Anthony presented the Anglo-Indian case to Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru before independence, and his efforts resulted in a special provision for the community in the Indian Constitution.

Parliamentary Reservation and Constitutional Provisions

After India's independence in 1947, the Anglo-Indian community was granted 2 permanent seats in the Lok Sabha, backed by the Indian Constitution. These seats were to be nominated by the President on the advice of the government of India. The provisions for the Anglo-Indian community were modeled after those for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, indicating their unique status as a marginalized yet privileged ethnic group. The reservation was initially intended to last for 10 years but was extended multiple times, with the last withdrawal occurring in 2019.

Legacy and Impact

Frank Anthony's legacy is evident in the consistent representation of the Anglo-Indian community in every Lok Sabha from 1952 to 1993, with rare exceptions. His influence and the special provisions granted to the community reflect the complex relationships forged during colonial rule and the subsequent challenges of nation-building. This unique case study offers insights into the dynamics of ethnic representation and the enduring impact of colonial legacies in modern India.

As the Anglo-Indian community's numbers have dwindled significantly, their unique status in the Indian Parliament remains a poignant reminder of the country's diverse history and the political landscape shaped by colonial influences.

Keywords: Anglo-Indian community, Parliamentary reservation, Indian history