Why in news
- The NCSC Chairman conducted an on-site inquiry at IIT Bombay regarding alleged caste-based discrimination and the death of a Scheduled Caste student.
Key terms
Article 338
The constitutional article providing for the establishment and powers of the National Commission for Scheduled Castes.
Civil Court Powers
Authority granted to administrative or statutory bodies to issue summons and demand documents similar to a civil court.
89th Amendment Act, 2003
The constitutional amendment that bifurcated the joint National Commission into separate NCSC (Article 338) and NCST (Article 338A).
PoA Act, 1989
Statute preventing offenses of atrocities against members of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
What is the NCSC?
- A constitutional body established under Article 338 of the Constitution of India to safeguard the rights and interest of Scheduled Castes.
- Originally a combined commission for SCs and STs, it became a dedicated single-member/multi-member body for SCs via the 89th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2003.
Powers and Functions during Inquiries
- Investigates and monitors all matters relating to constitutional and legal safeguards provided for Scheduled Castes.
- While investigating any matter or inquiring into any complaint, the Commission holds powers of a civil court trying a suit.
- Powers include summoning persons, enforcing attendance, requiring discovery of documents, and receiving evidence on affidavits.
Why it matters
- Highlights constitutional oversight mechanisms over premier higher educational institutions regarding non-discrimination.
- Reinforces institutional accountability under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
Prelims facts
- NCSC has the powers of a civil court while investigating complaints regarding SC rights violations.
Mains discussion
- Evaluate the effectiveness of constitutional bodies like NCSC in addressing systemic caste discrimination in higher educational institutions.
Source: PIB Press Release
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