🏛️ 65th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1990 🔹 Main Objective
🏛️ 65th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1990
🔹 Main Objective:
The aim of this amendment was to amend Article 338 of the Indian Constitution and establish a National Commission for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST).
Before this amendment, there was only a “Special Officer” appointed to look after the welfare and issues of SC/ST communities. However, that arrangement was not effective enough. So, a full-fledged constitutional commission was created.
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📜 Key Points:
• Article 338 was amended.
• A National Commission for SC/ST was set up.
• The Commission would consist of:
• 1 Chairperson
• 1 Vice-Chairperson
• 5 other Members
• All members are appointed by the President of India.
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⚖️ Powers and Functions of the Commission:
1. Monitoring Constitutional Safeguards:
Ensure all constitutional provisions and laws related to SC/ST welfare are being followed.
2. Investigating Complaints:
Look into any complaints where the rights of SC/ST individuals or groups are denied.
3. Advising the Government:
Suggest improvements in the socio-economic and educational development of SC/ST communities.
4. Reporting to the President:
The Commission submits its reports to the President, which are then laid before Parliament and State Legislatures.
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📅 Date of Enforcement:
• The 65th Amendment came into effect on 12th March 1992.
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📌 Importance of the Amendment:
• It was a major step toward protecting the rights of SC/ST communities.
• The Commission was given quasi-judicial powers, meaning it could act somewhat like a court.
• It changed the Commission’s status from just a recommendatory body to a constitutional authority, making its role and recommendations more powerful and effective.
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