Fri Feb 06 18:20:59 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Delhi High Court Demands “Better Affidavit” from Centre Regarding Vacancies in National Commission for Minorities
The Story:
The Delhi High Court has expressed dissatisfaction with the Centre’s handling of vacancies within the National Commission for Minorities (NCM), a statutory body intended to protect the rights and welfare of India’s minority communities. A Bench of Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia found the previous status report filed by the Ministry of Minority Affairs to be “absolutely bald and vague.” The court has ordered the Centre to submit a more detailed affidavit, including a timeline for filling the positions, within two weeks, setting a hearing for February 27, 2026.
The court’s intervention comes in response to a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by Mujahid Nafees, who argues that the government’s failure to appoint a chairperson, vice-chairperson, and all five members has rendered the NCM completely defunct since April 2025.
Key Points:
- The Delhi High Court has requested a “better affidavit” from the Centre regarding vacancies in the National Commission for Minorities.
- The previous status report from the Ministry of Minority Affairs was deemed “absolutely bald and vague.”
- The court wants a detailed timeline for the appointment of a chairperson, vice-chairperson, and five members.
- The NCM has been without a chairperson or members since April 2025.
- The court’s action is in response to a PIL filed by Mujahid Nafees, who alleges government negligence in filling the positions.
- The next hearing is scheduled for February 27, 2026.
Key Takeaways:
- The Delhi High Court is actively scrutinizing the government’s actions regarding the National Commission for Minorities.
- The prolonged vacancy within the NCM raises concerns about the protection of minority rights in India.
- The court’s demand for a detailed timeline signals a commitment to holding the government accountable.
First Piper 