UPSC Mains 2022 GS2 Q5 — Constitutional Bodies
Discuss the role of the National Commission for Backward Classes in the wake of its transformation from a statutory body to a constitutional body. (Answer in 150 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Discuss
- Scope keywords
- National Commission for Backward Classestransformationstatutory bodyconstitutional body
- Implicit sub-parts
- What specific constitutional powers were granted under the 102nd Amendment Act (Article 338B)?
- How has the transition from the NCBC Act 1993 to Article 338B enhanced its functional autonomy and grievance redressal role?
- What are the limitations or challenges the Commission still faces despite constitutional status?
- Common pitfalls
- Spending too many words on the historical 1993 statutory setup instead of the current constitutional mandate.
- Failing to mention Article 338B and Article 342A specifically.
- Neglecting the quasi-judicial powers (powers of a civil court) which is a key differentiator from its statutory predecessor.
- Ignoring the federal friction regarding the state's power to identify SEBCs (mentioning the 105th Amendment).
- Dimensions required
- ConstitutionalLegal/JurisdictionalAdministrativeSocial JusticeFederal/Inter-governmental
- Marks allocation hint
Spend 25 words on the transition context (102nd Amendment). Devote 70 words to the enhanced powers (investigation, advice on policy, and civil court powers). Use 40 words to discuss current effectiveness and the 105th Amendment correction, and conclude with a 15-word forward-looking statement.
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