The correct option is (c) 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
The Constituent Assembly of India was constituted in November 1946 under the scheme formulated by the Cabinet Mission Plan. Its status and powers were significantly altered by the Indian Independence Act, 1947, which transformed it into a fully sovereign body.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Incorrect. The Constituent Assembly was not directly elected by the people of India on the basis of adult franchise. Its members were elected indirectly by the members of the Provincial Legislative Assemblies, who themselves were elected on a limited franchise.
- Statement 2 is Correct. The allocation of seats in the Constituent Assembly was designed to ensure fair geographical representation. Seats were allotted to the British Indian Provinces and Princely States in proportion to their respective populations, roughly in the ratio of one seat for every million people. This ensured that all regions were represented according to their demographic weight.
- Statement 3 is Correct. While the Assembly was initially constituted under the limitations of the Cabinet Mission Plan, the Indian Independence Act, 1947 made it a fully sovereign body. It was empowered to frame any Constitution it pleased and to abrogate or alter any law made by the British Parliament in relation to India.
Key Takeaway:
The Constituent Assembly was a partly elected (indirectly) and partly nominated body that became fully sovereign only after the enactment of the Indian Independence Act, 1947.