New Delhi- Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi has criticized the Union government for leaving crucial positions unfilled in two constitutional bodies meant to protect marginalized communities.

In a letter to Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Virendra Kumar, Gandhi highlighted that the Vice-Chairperson position in the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) has remained vacant for approximately one year, despite the appointment of a Chairperson and two members to the 7th NCSC last year.

Gandhi similarly pointed out that the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) has been functioning without a Vice-Chairperson for nearly three years, operating with only a Chairperson and one member. According to constitutional provisions, both commissions should have a Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and multiple members.

"The deliberate attempt to undermine and weaken the NCSC exposes the anti-Dalit mindset of this government," Gandhi wrote, emphasizing that thousands across India have historically sought justice through the NCSC, which addresses critical issues like public employment, education access, and atrocity prevention.

The Congress leader expressed particular concern about the NCBC vacancies occurring "at a juncture when the nation-wide chorus for a caste census has grown louder."

Gandhi urged the government to promptly fill these positions, stating that social justice must be central to creating an inclusive vision for India, and that these institutions must be empowered to fulfill their constitutional mandates.