The Uttar Pradesh Minority Commission has remained non-functional since its term ended on June 27, 2024. No chairman, vice-chairman or members have been appointed since, effectively halting its operations.
NEW DELHI — The absence of the Minority Commission in Uttar Pradesh for nearly two years has raised serious concerns, leaving hundreds of complaints unaddressed and prompting the High Court to question the delay in reconstituting the body.
The Allahabad High Court has expressed strong displeasure over the situation and directed the state government to respond. The next hearing is scheduled for May 23.
The Uttar Pradesh Minority Commission has remained non-functional since its term ended on June 27, 2024. No chairman, vice-chairman or members have been appointed since, effectively halting its operations.
As a result, around 1,870 complaints are pending, according to official figures. Many of these relate to alleged actions by police and administrative authorities and are largely linked to issues faced by minority communities.
In the absence of the commission, affected individuals have limited avenues to pursue their grievances. An official currently holding additional charge as secretary is authorised only to receive complaints but lacks the power to pass orders or take decisions, rendering the mechanism largely ineffective.
During earlier proceedings, the state government told the court that administrative priorities had delayed the commission’s reconstitution. However, the court has now made it clear that its directions should not be taken lightly and has sought a definitive response.
The matter was heard at the Lucknow bench of the High Court by Justice Arun Bhansali. The petition was filed by Shams Tabrez, with advocate Shamsher Yadav representing the case.
Under the law governing the commission, it must comprise a chairman, a vice-chairman and members, including women representatives. Without these appointments, the body cannot exercise its powers.
Former chairman Shakeel Ahmad said the commission plays a crucial role in addressing complaints. “When the commission is functional, it becomes easier for people to seek justice, especially in matters involving authorities,” he said.
Legal observers say the prolonged delay has significantly affected access to grievance redressal for vulnerable groups, as the commission serves as a key platform to raise concerns.
With the court now closely monitoring the issue, attention has turned to whether the state government will move to restore the commission and address the growing backlog of cases.
