The Cabinet has cleared a proposal to remove the upper age limit of 65 years for appointment as chairperson, vice-chairperson, and members of the SC-ST Commission. The proposal was approved through circulation, paving the way for an ordinance to be issued soon.
Until now, the maximum age limit for appointment to the Commission was 65 years. The Commission has a provision for a maximum of 20 members, out of which one is the chairperson and two are vice-chairpersons.
The government spokesperson said that any relaxation in the Act can only be done through an ordinance. With the proposal being cleared through circulation, the way is now clear for an ordinance to be brought in.
Notably, on August 23, several members were selected for the Commission who were above the age of 65. After the ordinance is issued, a decision can be taken on such members. However, the selection order will have to be issued afresh.
The Cabinet cleared a total of 13 proposals from different departments through circulation on Monday, including the proposal to amend Section 5 (1) of the Uttar Pradesh SC-ST Commission Act, 1995, and the amended Act, 2007.”
