Indiana Constitution ARTICLE 12.
Indiana Constitution – Article 12: Militia – Summary
Article 12 of the Indiana Constitution outlines the structure, authority, and obligations related to the state militia, which refers to the state’s organized military forces, including what is now the Indiana National Guard.
🔷 Key Provisions of Article 12:
Who Is Eligible
All able-bodied males (typically aged 18–45) may be considered part of the militia, unless exempted by law.
Organization, Equipment, and Discipline
The General Assembly (state legislature) has the authority to organize, arm, and discipline the militia.
They may also exempt certain individuals (e.g., conscientious objectors or public officials).
Officers
Militia officers are appointed or elected as directed by law.
Officers must reside within their unit's boundaries.
Governor’s Role
The Governor is the Commander-in-Chief of the state militia.
Can call the militia into service to:
Enforce laws
Suppress insurrection
Repel invasion
Militia Not in Active Service
Members are not entitled to compensation unless called into actual service.
🔍 Purpose:
Ensures that Indiana can maintain an organized defense force for emergencies.
Balances civilian control and state sovereignty in military matters.
Reflects historical values while allowing flexibility for modern implementation (like the National Guard).
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