NCSC Takes Suo Motu Cognisance of Alleged Derogatory Remark Against SC Community
Why in news?
The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) has initiated a suo motu case based on a video alleging that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee made derogatory remarks against the Scheduled Caste (SC) community during an election rally. The NCSC has requested a detailed report from the state's Chief Secretary and DGP.
Key points
- NCSC acted on a video clip of alleged derogatory remarks by a Chief Minister against the SC community.
- The commission has sought a report from the West Bengal Chief Secretary and DGP within three days.
- This action highlights the role of constitutional bodies in addressing caste-related issues and potential violations of the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act.
- The incident occurs during the ongoing election campaign in West Bengal.
Background & context
The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) is a constitutional body established under Article 338 of the Constitution of India. It is mandated to investigate and monitor all matters relating to the safeguards provided for Scheduled Castes under the Constitution or under any other law. It has all the powers of a civil court trying a suit and its inquiries are deemed judicial proceedings.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Article 338 provides for the National Commission for Scheduled Castes.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Constitutional bodies, Governance, Social Justice, Rights Issues.