Section 3 of TCA : Section 3: Definition Of Cantonments

Explanation using Example

Imagine a scenario where the Indian Army decides to establish a new base near a small town due to strategic requirements. The Central Government, recognizing the need for organized and dedicated support for the forces, issues a notification in the Official Gazette declaring the area surrounding the new base as a cantonment under the Cantonments Act, 2006. This declaration outlines the precise boundaries of the cantonment, ensuring that military and civilian administration within the area can be managed under the specific rules and regulations designed for cantonments.

In accordance with the Act, the Central Government then defines the limits of the cantonment to ensure clarity in governance and to delineate the jurisdiction for the cantonment board that will be established. This helps in maintaining order and providing necessary services within the cantonment area.

Following this declaration, the Central Government has a year to constitute a Cantonment Board to manage the area. However, due to some logistical delays, the government records the reasons in writing and extends the period by six months to complete the formation of the Board. Meanwhile, the government issues an order to make temporary provisions for the administration of the cantonment to ensure that there is no governance vacuum.

Furthermore, the Central Government decides that certain local self-government laws will not apply in full within the cantonment, or will only apply with modifications. A notification is issued stating these specifics, which might include altering the extent of authority local bodies have within the cantonment or changing how certain services are provided, to better suit the military context of the area.