Vijay Sampla has recently made headlines for his appointment as the chairman of the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC). This noteworthy development underscores the ongoing efforts to promote the rights and interests of scheduled castes (SC) in India.
About the National Commission for Scheduled Castes
The NCSC is a constitutional entity, established under Article 338 of the Indian constitution. Its principal function is to ensure the preservation and promotion of the interests of the SC in India. The commission is authorized to investigate, monitor, inquire into specific complaints, and advise on all matters related to the safeguards provided for SCs. It also plays a key role in formulating the planning process of their socio-economic development.
The Origin and Evolution of NCSC
In its initial phase, the constitution provisioned for the appointment of a Special Officer under Article 338, known as the Commissioner for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. A significant change occurred in 1990 with the 65th Amendment, which replaced the one-member system with a multi-member National Commission for SC and ST.
Further modifications were introduced in 2003 through the 89th Amendment. This amendment led to the division of the erstwhile National Commission for SC and ST into two separate Commissions: the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) and the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST). These alterations have been instrumental in enhancing the representation and protection of these communities.
Structure of the National Commission for Scheduled Castes
The structure of the NCSC comprises a Chairperson, a Vice-chairperson, and three other members. These individuals are appointed by the President, making it a team of five people who are responsible for fulfilling the duties of the Commission.
Functions and Responsibilities of the NCSC
The NCSC holds a crucial role in ensuring the protection and advancement of SCs in India. Its functions include monitoring and investigating issues related to the safeguards provided for SCs, inquiring into complaints of rights and safeguards deprivation, advising central or state governments on socio-economic development planning, and reporting to the President on the implementation of these safeguards.
In addition, the Commission recommends actions for the socio-economic development and welfare activities of the SC community. Interestingly, the Commission also extends its functions towards the welfare of the Anglo-Indian Community, similar to its responsibilities towards the SCs. However, it was relieved of similar functions regarding other backward classes (OBCs) by the 102nd Amendment Act of 2018.
Other Constitutional Provisions for the Upliftment of Schedule Castes
Several provisions in the Indian constitution specifically address the upliftment of Scheduled Castes. These include Article 15(4) for special advancement provisions, Article 16(4A) for reservation matters in state services, Article 17 abolishing Untouchability, and Article 46 promoting educational and economic interests.
Furthermore, Article 335 considers SC and ST claims in appointments to services and posts, while Articles 330 and 332 provide for reservation seats in the House of the People and in state legislative assemblies respectively. Also, Parts IX and IXA of the Constitution provide for reservation for SC and ST in local bodies.
