Functions of the Commission

(1) The Commission shall perform all or any of the following functions namely:- (a) evaluate the progress of the development of minorities in Uttarakhand; (b) monitor the working of the safeguards in respect of minorities provided in the constitution and in laws enacted by the State legislature; (c) make recommendations for the effective implementation of safeguards for the protection of the interests of minorities by the Government; (d) look into specific complaints regarding deprivation of rights and safeguards of the minorities and take up such matters with the appropriate authorities; (e) cause studies to be undertaken into problems arising out of any discrimination against minorities and recommend measures for their removal; (f) conduct studies, research and analysis on the issues relating to socio-economic and educational development of minorities; (g) suggest appropriate measures in respect of any minority to be undertaken by the Government; (h) make periodical or special reports to the Government on any matter pertaining to minorities and in particular difficulties confronted by them; and (i) any other matter which may be referred to it by the Government. (2) The Government shall cause the recommendations referred to in clause (c) of sub-section (1) to be laid before the State legislature along with a memorandum explaining the action taken or proposed to be taken on the recommendations and the reason for the non-acceptance if any of such recommendations. (3) The Commission shall, while performing any of the functions mentioned in clause (a) (b) and (d) of sub-section (1) have all the powers of a civil court trying a suit and in particular, in respect of the following matters; namely:-- (a) summoning and enforcing the attendance of any person and examining him on oath; (b) requiring the discovery and production of any document; (c) receiving evidence on affidavits; (d) requisitioning any public record or copy thereof from any office ; (e) issuing commissions or the examination of witnesses and documents; and, (f) any other matter which may be prescribed.