DMK’s P. Wilson Seeks Constitutional Backing for Minority Commission in Rajya Sabha

New Delhi, February 11, 2026: DMK Rajya Sabha member P. Wilson on Wednesday called on the Union Government to grant constitutional status to the National Commission for Minorities (NCM), arguing that the statutory body has been rendered ineffective at a time when minority communities face growing insecurity.

Raising the issue in the Upper House, Wilson thanked the Chair for permitting him to speak “on a matter that goes to the very soul of the Constitution.” He voiced concern over what he described as a rise in targeted violence against minority communities in recent years.

Referring to incidents of mob lynching, attacks on pastors and priests, and vandalism of churches and mosques, the senior advocate-turned-parliamentarian said such acts undermine the constitutional guarantees of equality, secularism and religious freedom. He also alleged that anti-conversion laws in certain States are being misused, leading to the filing of multiple FIRs — including against minors — and resulting in prolonged arrests and detentions before acquittals.

Citing figures, Wilson claimed that nearly 400 cases have been registered under anti-conversion laws since 2020, with around 1,200 individuals arrested. He argued that at a time when minorities require robust institutional protection, the NCM has been left without leadership and authority.

“The body meant to act as a sentinel of justice has been reduced to an empty office building,” Wilson said, pointing out that the posts of Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson and members of the Commission are currently vacant. According to him, some vacancies have remained unfilled for more than ten months, while others have been pending for over three years, sending what he termed a “chilling message” about the government’s commitment to minority safeguards.

Wilson referred to a 2017–18 report of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Social Justice and Empowerment, which had described the Commission as “most ineffective” in addressing discrimination and violence and had recommended granting it constitutional status. He noted that the NCM’s powers are advisory in nature, with a former Chairperson reportedly calling it a “toothless tiger.”

“Nearly a decade later, instead of strengthening the Commission, the government has allowed it to collapse entirely,” he said, urging the Minister for Minority Affairs to immediately fill the vacant posts.

The DMK leader further called for amendments to the Constitution and the National Commission for Minorities Act, 1992, to elevate the body to constitutional status. He also demanded that atrocities against minorities be clearly defined as criminal offences and that the Commission be empowered with investigative and enforcement authority, including the power to direct registration of cases.

The issue drew attention in the House amid broader debates on institutional safeguards and the protection of constitutional values.

By Catholic Connect Reporter