Assertion (A) and the other labelled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A): The word minority is not defined in the Constitution of India.
Reason (R): The Minorities Commission is not a constitutional body. In the context of the above two statements, which one of the following is correct?
Explanation
Assertion(A) is true: The Constitution of India does not define the term "minority." While the Constitution provides for the protection of minorities through various provisions (such as Articles 29 and 30), the word "minority" itself is not defined. However, certain minority groups are recognized and protected, but the Constitution leaves the exact definition to be determined by laws, such as the National Commission for Minorities Act, 1992. Reason (R) is true: The National Commission for Minorities (NCM) is not a constitutional body; it was created under the National Commission for Minorities Act, 1992, passed by Parliament. Unlike other commissions such as the Election Commission, Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), and Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), the NCM is a statutory body, not one established by the Constitution. However, Reason (R) does not explain Assertion (A) directly. The fact that the Minorities Commission is a statutory body does not explain why the term "minority" is not defined in the Constitution.