The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) has recently directed the states of Telangana, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha to collect data on tribals displaced from Chhattisgarh due to Maoist violence. This step is crucial in addressing tribal displacement, loss of livelihood, and socio-economic vulnerabilities caused by insurgency and internal conflicts.
NCST, established under the Constitutional mandate of Article 338A, plays a vital role in protecting and promoting the rights of Scheduled Tribes (STs) across India. It monitors safeguards, investigates violations, and provides policy recommendations for tribal welfare.
About the NCST
Genesis & Legal Framework
NCST was established under Article 338A of the Indian Constitution, which was introduced through the 89th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2003.
Earlier, Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) were under a single commission, but the amendment bifurcated the SC/ST Commission, creating a separate NCST.
Composition & Tenure
The Commission consists of:
Chairperson (Rank equivalent to Union Cabinet Minister)
Vice-Chairperson (Rank equivalent to Minister of State)
Members (Rank equivalent to Secretary, Government of India)
The tenure of each member is three years from the date of appointment.
Key Functions of NCST
NCST acts as the watchdog for tribal rights and welfare. Its primary functions include:
Monitoring Safeguards for Scheduled Tribes
Ensures implementation of constitutional and legal protections for STs.
Reviews policies affecting tribal welfare.
Investigating Complaints & Grievances
Probes into violations of tribal rights.
Addresses displacement, land alienation, and discrimination issues faced by STs.
Advising on Socio-Economic Development
Provides recommendations to the government on tribal-centric policies.
Ensures effective execution of Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP) and Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006.
Power of a Civil Court
NCST has quasi-judicial powers and functions as a Civil Court when investigating matters related to STs.
Can summon individuals, demand documents, and examine witnesses under oath.
Why is NCST’s Role Important?
Tribal Rights Protection: Ensures that STs are not deprived of their ancestral land, livelihood, and resources.
Maoist Conflict & Displacement: In conflict-affected areas, many tribals are forced to flee due to Maoist insurgency, government operations, and industrial projects. NCST intervenes in such cases to rehabilitate and resettle displaced tribals.
Policy Influence: NCST plays a critical role in shaping laws such as:
Forest Rights Act, 2006 – Recognizing tribals’ rights over forest lands.
Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA), 1996 – Empowering tribal self-governance.
SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 – Addressing crimes against STs.
Conclusion
The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) plays a crucial role in protecting tribal rights, ensuring policy implementation, and addressing grievances. Its recent intervention in tribal displacement due to Maoist violence highlights its proactive role in safeguarding the socio-economic interests of India’s tribal communities. As the country moves towards inclusive development, strengthening institutions like NCST is vital for achieving equitable growth and justice for the Scheduled Tribes.
Relevance for UPSC CSE
The topic is important for UPSC Prelims & Mains (GS-2 & GS-3) under:
Constitutional Bodies & Governance: NCST’s role in tribal welfare.
Social Justice & Rights Issues: Protection of vulnerable communities.
Internal Security & Naxalism: Displacement due to Maoist insurgency.
UPSC Practice Question
With reference to the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST), consider the following statements:
The NCST was established under Article 338A through the 89th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2003.
The Chairperson of NCST holds a rank equivalent to Union Minister of State.
NCST has the power to function as a Civil Court while investigating cases related to Scheduled Tribes.
The primary function of NCST is to formulate and implement tribal development programs.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1, 2, and 3 only
(d) 1, 3, and 4 only
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