Amended Provisions of the Constitution

Bifurcated the erstwhile combined National Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes into two separate bodies, namely, National Commission for Scheduled Castes and National Commission for Scheduled Tribes. Both the Commissions consist of a Chairperson, a ViceChairperson and three other members. They are appointed by the President.

Provided for maintaining the erstwhile representation of the Scheduled Tribes and nonScheduled Tribes in the Assam legislative assembly from the Bodoland Territorial Areas District.

Made the following provisions to limit the size of Council of Ministers, to debar defectors from holding public offices, and to strengthen the anti-defection law:

1. The total number of ministers, including the Prime Minister, in the Central Council of Ministers shall not exceed 15% of the total strength of the Lok Sabha.

2. A member of either house of Parliament belonging to any political party who is disqualified on the ground of defection shall also be disqualified to be appointed as a minister.

3. The total number of ministers, including the Chief Minister, in the Council of Ministers in a state shall