The term "Union Territory" is used to distinguish these territories from the states of India, which have their own elected state governments and legislatures. The Constitution of India divides India's territory into states and Union Territories. The states have more powers and responsibilities as compared to the Union Territories.
The reasons why Union Territories are called so include:
1. Central Government Control: Union Territories are directly governed by the central government, which exercises complete control over their administration. The President of India appoints the Administrator or Lieutenant Governor to head the administration of a Union Territory.
2. Limited Legislative Powers: Unlike states, Union Territories do not have their own state legislature to pass laws. Instead, the central government acts as the legislature and makes laws applicable to the Union Territories through the Parliament of India.
3. Representation in Parliament: Union Territories are represented in the Parliament of India by elected Members of Parliament (MPs) to the Lok Sabha (lower house) and Rajya Sabha (upper house). However, the number of MPs representing Union Territories is usually limited compared to the representation for states.
4. Geographic Factors and Special Status: Some Union Territories have been created due to their geographical location or special status. For example, the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a group of islands located in the Bay of Bengal, while the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu are enclaves surrounded by the state of Gujarat.
5. Limited Administrative Resources: Union Territories generally have smaller populations, limited resources, and less developed infrastructure compared to states. As a result, the central government may directly manage their administration and provide financial assistance to ensure their development and well-being.
In summary, Union Territories are called so due to their status as directly governed entities of the central government, their limited legislative powers, representation in Parliament, geographical factors, and administrative considerations.