National Commission for Women: SC/ST Member Requirement

The question asks about the minimum number of members from Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) who must be part of the National Commission for Women (NCW) in India.

Understanding the NCW Composition

The composition and appointment of members to the National Commission for Women are governed by The National Commission for Women Act, 1990.

According to Section 3 of the Act:

• The Commission consists of a Chairperson, appointed by the Central Government.
• The Commission also includes five Members, appointed by the Central Government.
• The Central Government can also appoint more Members if needed.

Specific SC/ST Representation

Delving deeper into the specific requirements for member appointments, Section 3(3) of the Act clarifies:

• Among the Members appointed, at least one must be nominated from the Scheduled Castes (SC) or Scheduled Tribes (ST).
• This means there needs to be a minimum representation from these specific communities to ensure their perspectives are included in the Commission's work.

Therefore, the minimum number of persons belonging to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes who must be members of the National Commission for Women is one.