Proposal to empower OBC panel being examined: Government

NEW DELHI: A proposal to empower National Commission for Backward Classes is under examination, Rajya Sabha was informed today.

Replying to questions in this regard, Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Krishan Pal Gurjar said, "A proposal to further empower the National Commission for Backward Classes is at present under examination. An amendment in the Constitution would be required to empower the Commission."

He was responding to questions on whether there is "serious" consideration of a proposal to grant 'Constitutional' status to OBCs Commission or set up a new panel with status like that of SC/ST Commission.

Gurjar did not give direct answer to the question on Constitutional status.

When asked if the Government has done ground work in this regard, the Minister added, "The matter is under examination."