Article 338 is related to

The correct answer is National Commission for Scheduled Castes.

Key Points

• Article 338 of the Indian Constitution provides for the establishment of the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC).
• The NCSC is tasked with safeguarding the interests of Scheduled Castes (SCs) and ensuring their socio-economic and cultural development.
• The Commission was originally established as a combined body for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SC/ST) but was bifurcated under the 89th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2003.
• The NCSC has the authority to investigate and monitor all matters relating to the safeguards provided for SCs under the Constitution.
• The Commission submits an annual report to the President of India, which is then tabled in Parliament for discussion.

Additional Information

• National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST):
  • Created under Article 338A of the Constitution, inserted by the 89th Amendment Act, 2003.
  • Responsible for safeguarding the rights of Scheduled Tribes (STs).
  • Similar in structure and functioning to the NCSC but focuses on STs.
• Functions of the NCSC:
  • To investigate and monitor safeguards provided for SCs under the Constitution or any other law.
  • To inquire into specific complaints regarding the deprivation of rights of SCs.
  • To advise the government on planning and socio-economic development of SCs.
  • To submit annual reports to the President on the implementation of SC safeguards.
• Scheduled Castes:
  • Scheduled Castes are communities listed under Article 341 of the Constitution.
  • They are entitled to affirmative action and special protections to overcome historical discrimination.
  • The list of SCs varies across states and is notified by the President of India.
• Historical Background:
  • The first Backward Classes Commission (1953), chaired by Kaka Kalelkar, laid the foundation for addressing social inequalities.
  • The NCSC was initially combined with STs under a single body until the 89th Amendment Act, 2003, created separate commissions.