National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST)
Kartavya Desk Staff
Source: PIB
Subject: Polity
Context: The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) celebrated its 23rd Foundation Day in New Delhi, highlighting its role in safeguarding tribal rights and promoting inclusive development.
About National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST):
What it is?
• The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) is a constitutional body established under Article 338A of the Constitution of India to protect, monitor and promote the rights and welfare of Scheduled Tribes (STs).
• It acts as a watchdog institution ensuring implementation of constitutional safeguards and addressing grievances related to tribal communities.
Established in:
• Established in 2004 following the Constitution (89th Amendment) Act, 2003.
• It separated tribal affairs from the earlier combined commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes to ensure focused attention on tribal issues.
History:
• 1978: Government set up a multi-member Commission for SCs & STs.
• 1992: Constitutional status granted through the 65th Constitutional Amendment, forming the National Commission for SCs & STs.
• 2003–04: 89th Constitutional Amendment bifurcated the body into: National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST)
• National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC)
• National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST)
Members:
• The NCST consists of:
• Chairperson Vice-Chairperson Three Members
• Chairperson
• Vice-Chairperson
• Three Members
• All are appointed by the President of India and generally include persons with expertise in tribal administration, social justice and policy.
Key Functions:
• Monitoring safeguards: Investigates and monitors constitutional and legal safeguards provided to Scheduled Tribes and evaluates their effectiveness.
• Inquiry into complaints: Examines complaints regarding deprivation of rights, land alienation, atrocities, or denial of benefits meant for tribal communities.
• Advisory role in development planning: Participates in policy formulation and advises governments on socio-economic development programmes for STs.
• Reporting to the President: Submits annual and special reports to the President regarding implementation of safeguards and policy recommendations.
• Civil court powers: While investigating cases, the Commission has powers similar to a civil court such as summoning individuals, calling documents, and recording evidence.
• Policy consultation: Union and State Governments are expected to consult the Commission on major policy matters affecting Scheduled Tribes.