Article 243ZA–ZH (various follow-up articles) of the Constitution relate to Panchayat finance. Which of the following is constitutionally mandated about State Finance Commissions (SFCs) under Article 243-I?

Solution

Article 338 establishes the National Commission for Scheduled Castes, while Article 338A establishes the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes. These commissions are constitutional bodies tasked with investigating safeguards provided to SCs and STs, inquiring into complaints, and advising governments. Though their recommendations are not binding, they carry significant constitutional weight. In All India Indian Overseas Bank SC/ST Employees’ Welfare Association v. Union of India, the Supreme Court recognized the importance of these commissions in enforcing constitutional protections. They act as watchdogs to ensure substantive equality under Articles 14, 15, and 46.