Which Constitutional Amendment Act extended the reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies ?

Key Points

• The 79^th Amendment Act of the Constitution of India extended the reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies.
• The amendment ensures that the SC and ST communities continue to have representation in the legislative bodies, promoting their political inclusion and participation.
• This amendment was crucial in maintaining the affirmative action policies aimed at addressing historical injustices and providing equitable opportunities for these communities.

Additional Information

• The Constitution of India was adopted by the Constituent Assembly on 26^th November 1949 and came into effect on 26^th January 1950.
• It lays down the framework defining fundamental political principles, establishes the structure, procedures, powers, and duties of government institutions, and sets out fundamental rights, directive principles, and the duties of citizens.
• The Constitution of India is the longest written constitution of any country in the world.
• It declares India a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic, assuring its citizens justice, equality, and liberty, and endeavors to promote fraternity.
• The Seventh Schedule of the Constitution contains three lists which delineate the subjects under the Union, State, and Concurrent lists.
• Amendments to the Constitution can be made through a process outlined in Article 368.
• The Union List has been amended several times to meet the evolving needs of the nation.