Enumerate the Constitutional Provisions for Safeguarding the Interest of Minorities, Weaker Sections and Backward Classes

To counter the challenges of communalism and casteism, the constitution of India prescribes protection and safeguard to the minorities, weaker sections and backward classes. These constitutional arrangements ensure protection of their varied interest, removal of social disabilities and promotions of their welfare and development.

These provisions are as under:

(i) Abolition of untouchability.

(ii) Prohibition of forced labour.

(iii) Protection against social injustice or exploitation.

(iv) Hindu religious institutions are open for all sections of Hindus.

(v) No restrictions to access public places like schools, tanks, wells and bathing ghats etc.

(vi) All citizens are free to move, settle and acquire property in scheduled and tribal area.

(vii) Special provision for the administration and control of scheduled and tribal areas.

(viii) Setting up Tribal Advisory Councils, National Minority Commission, Tribal Welfare and Harijan Welfare Advisory Boards, Mandal Commission etc.

(ix) Special reservation seats in Parliament, Village Panchayats, Public Services etc.

(x) Several concessions like relaxation in age, fee and qualification have also been provided to the minorities and weaker sections.