(a) whether the Government proposes to redefine the term `Minority`;
(b) if so, the reasons therefor;
(c) whether the National Commission for Minority Educational Institutions has expressed its
reservation;
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) the reaction of the Government thereon?
MINISTER OF MINORITY AFFAIRS (SHRI. A.R. ANTULAY)
(a) to (e): The Constitution (One Hundred and Third Amendment) Bill to confer constitutional
status on the National Commission for Minorities was introduced in the Lok Sabha in December,
2004. The Bill includes a definition of `minority`. The recommendations of the Standing Committee
on Social Justice 8s Empowerment regarding the Bill have been considered and some issues,
including those raised by the National Commission for Minority Educational Institutions, are
still under examination.