Q. Consider the following statements about the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC):

1. It is a constitutional body
2. The chairperson of the commission is appointed for the term of five years
3. It is mandatory for the union and state governments to consult the commission on all matters related to scheduled caste

Which of the above statements is/are correct?
Answer: 1 & 3 Only
Notes: First statement is correct. National Commission for Scheduled Caste (NCSC) is a constitutional body established as per the Article 338-A of the Constitution. Second statement is incorrect. The chairperson, who is given the rank of Union Cabinet Minister, is appointed by the President for a term of three years from the date of assumption of charge. Third statement is correct. It is mandatory for the union and state governments to consult the commission on all matters related to scheduled caste. The main work of the commission is to investigate and monitor all matters relating to the safeguards provided for the scheduled tribes. The commission is vested with all the powers of a civil court trying a suit while investigating any matter or inquiring into any complaint.