Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju addressed Rajya Sabha queries about vacant posts in the National Commission for Minorities (NCM). All positions, including Chairperson and Members, have been empty since April this year. MPs I.S. Inbadurai and K.R. Suresh Reddy asked if the government noted the Delhi High Court's views on these delays and whether steps to fill the vacancies were underway. They also inquired about any interim measures to keep the NCM functioning. In a written reply, Mr. Rijiju explained that per the NCM Act, 1992, the Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and Members are nominated by the Central government from eminent persons with ability and integrity. He added, "Further, as per Section 8(2) of the NCM Act, 1992, the Commission shall regulate its own procedure." The Minister said the Commission continues to handle grievances by coordinating with authorities. He assured, "The Government endeavours to appoint Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson and all the Members of the Commission," but did not give any timeline for appointments. On October 15, the Delhi High Court asked the Centre to respond on the long delay in filling NCM roles. The court noted the Commission cannot remain headless for so long and urged the government not to wait before starting the appointment process. This followed a PIL by Mujahid Nafees, who highlighted minority welfare concerns due to these vacancies.