NEW DELHI: A bill to accord constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes was approved by the Lok Sabha even as the Opposition expressed apprehensions that it would impair the power of states.
The Constitution Amendment bill, which requires two-thirds majority for passage, was approved by the House with 360 members voting in favour and two against.
Terming it as “historic” bill, Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Thawar Chand Gehlot said it would promote the welfare of the OBCs.
The minister assured the House that the bill, which has similar provisions as in case of SC and ST commissions, will not curtail the powers of states in any way.
The Opposition, including the Congress, the Trinamool Congress and the BJD, sought an assurance from the minister that powers of the states would not be affected by the passage of the bill. (AGENCIES)
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