Has the Amended Bill on State Minorities’ Commission Passed in West Bengal Assembly?
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Synopsis
The recent passage of the West Bengal Minorities’ Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2025, in the state assembly marks a significant shift in the commission's structure, allowing for additional vice-chairpersons. This change has sparked debates on efficiency and representation. What implications will this have for minority communities in West Bengal?
Key Takeaways
- The West Bengal Minorities’ Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2025, enables the appointment of additional vice-chairpersons.
- Concerns have been raised regarding the efficiency of multiple appointments to the same post.
- The commission's operational scope has expanded significantly in recent years.
- Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya emphasized that the amendments are not discriminatory.
- Vice-chairpersons will only receive a nominal meeting allowance.
Kolkata, June 13 (NationPress) The West Bengal Minorities’ Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2025, has successfully passed through the Assembly on Friday, enabling the commission to appoint additional individuals to significant positions beyond previous limitations.
The most noteworthy aspect of this new appointment provision is the position of vice-chairperson within the commission. Once this amended Bill transforms into a formal Act following approval from Governor C.V. Ananda Bose's office, the commission will have the authority to appoint two vice-chairpersons instead of the previously allowed single position.
However, Nawsad Siddique, the only representative from the All India Secular Front (AISF) in the assembly, raised concerns questioning the rationale behind appointing multiple individuals to the same role rather than enhancing the efficiency of the commission.
BJP legislator and the party's chief whip in the state assembly, Shankar Ghosh, proposed that a “Non-Muslim Public Figure” should be appointed as one of the vice-chairpersons. He emphasized that the primary mission of the commission should focus on promoting education and that his proposal is vital for identifying shortcomings in this area.
In response, West Bengal's Minister of State for Finance (independent charge), Chandrima Bhattacharya, clarified that the intention behind creating additional vice-chairperson positions is not to foster any discrimination.
“The existing Act encompasses six religious communities: Muslims, Christians, Parsis, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs. The commission's operational scope has significantly expanded over recent years. Thus, the new Bill suggests one chairperson, two vice-chairpersons, and nine members for the commission, as per constitutional provisions,” Bhattacharya stated.
She further mentioned that while there is remuneration for the commission’s chairperson, no such provision exists for vice-chairpersons. “The vice-chairperson will receive an allowance of only Rs 1,000 for each meeting attended,” Bhattacharya concluded.
Point of View
The passage of the West Bengal Minorities’ Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2025, represents a significant moment in enhancing representation for minority communities. However, the discussions surrounding the additional appointments highlight a need for clarity regarding the commission's operational efficiency. It is crucial for the commission to maintain its focus on its core mission of supporting education and community development.
NationPress
14/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the West Bengal Minorities’ Commission (Amendment) Bill?
The West Bengal Minorities’ Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2025, allows for the appointment of additional key posts within the commission, including two vice-chairpersons instead of one.
Why was there a proposal for a Non-Muslim Public Figure as vice-chairperson?
BJP legislator Shankar Ghosh proposed the appointment of a Non-Muslim Public Figure to emphasize the importance of promoting education and addressing shortcomings in that area.
How many members will the commission have under the new amendment?
The new amendment proposes one chairperson, two vice-chairpersons, and nine members for the commission.
What is the remuneration for vice-chairpersons?
Vice-chairpersons are entitled to an allowance of Rs 1,000 for each meeting attended, with no additional remuneration provided.
What religious communities are covered under the existing Act?
The existing Act covers six religious communities: Muslims, Christians, Parsis, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs.
