NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR SCs
WHAT IS NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR SCs?
- It is a Constitutional body, formed by 89th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2003.
- It’s duty is to investigate all matter relating to the constitutional safeguard for SCs
- It is formed under Article 338.
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR SCs?
- To investigate all matters relating to the Constitutional safeguards for SCs and report to the President of India.
EVOLUTION OF THE COMMISSION
- Originally, Article 338 provided for the special officer for SC and ST.
- In 1978, the government set up a non-statutory multi-member commission for SC and ST, the officer for SCs and STs also existed.
- In 1987, the government modified the functions of Commission and renamed it as the National Commission for SC and ST.
- 65th constitutional amendment act, 1990 provided for the establishment of a high level multi member NCSC and NCST in place of single officer.
- In 89th constitutional amendment, 2003 bifurcated the combined National Commission for Sc and ST into 2 separate bodies, namely
- NCST: Article 338-A.
WHAT ARE THE FUNCTIONS OF NCSCs?
- To monitor cases and matters related to SCs.
- To inquire into specific complaints with respect to the deprivation of rights and safeguards of SCs.
- To participate and advise on the planning process of socio-economic development of SCs and to evaluate their progress.
- To present the annual report to the President.
WHAT IS THE REMOVAL PROCEDURE FOR NCSCs?
- The removal process is not given in the Indian Constitution.
- So, the members of NCSC are under the pleasure of the President.
- The qualification of becoming the member and Chairman is not given in the Indian Constitution so they are being appointed on the advice of Council of Ministers.
- Tenure: 3 Years