• The National Commission for Backward Classes (Repeal) Bill, 2017 was introduced in Lok Sabha by the Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Mr. Thaawarchand Gehlot on April 5, 2017. 

• Repeal:  The Bill seeks to repeal the National Commission for Backward Classes Act, 1993.  The Act established the National Commission for Backward Classes.  The Commission has the power to examine requests for inclusion and exclusion of backward classes, and advise the central government in this regard.

• The Bill was introduced alongside the Constitution (123rd Amendment) Bill, 2017 that provides for setting up of the National Commission of Backward Classes under the Constitution.  The Statements of Objects and Reasons of the repealing Bill clarifies that after the setting up of the National Commission of Backward Classes under the Constitution, the Act will become redundant, and therefore, may be repealed.

• Effect of repeal:  The Bill states that the repeal of the Act will not affect: (i) any rights, privileges or liabilities acquired under the Act, (ii) any penalty incurred because of previous violation of the Act, or (iii) other acts that may have been done under previous operation of the Act.

DISCLAIMER: This document is being furnished to you for your information.  You may choose to reproduce or redistribute this report for non-commercial purposes in part or in full to any other person with due acknowledgement of PRS Legislative Research (“PRS”).  The opinions expressed herein are entirely those of the author(s).  PRS makes every effort to use reliable and comprehensive information, but PRS does not represent that the contents of the report are accurate or complete.  PRS is an independent, not-for-profit group.  This document has been prepared without regard to the objectives or opinions of those who may receive it.