Haryana Implements Sub-Classification of SC Reservations
On November 14, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini announced the implementation of sub-classification of reservations for Scheduled Castes (SCs) in government jobs. This decision follows a recent Supreme Court ruling that allows such sub-classification.
Supreme Court’s Landmark Decision
On August 1, the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, ruled by a 6:1 majority that sub-classification within SC/ST reservations is permissible. This decision overruled previous judgments that considered SC/STs as homogenous classes.
Judges’ Opinions
The seven-judge bench included Justices BR Gavai, Vikram Nath, Bela M Trivedi, Pankaj Mithal, Manoj Misra, and Satish Chandra Sharma. Justice Bela M Trivedi dissented, disagreeing with the majority opinion.
Implications of the Ruling
The court emphasized the need to identify the ‘creamy layer’ within SC/STs to ensure fair distribution of benefits. It also highlighted the necessity of collecting data to justify sub-classification under Article 16(4) of the Constitution.
The decision aims to ensure that sub-classification does not violate Article 341(2) unless it provides exclusive benefits to certain groups within the SCs.
Doubts Revealed
Haryana -: Haryana is a state in northern India, known for its rich culture and history. It is one of the 28 states in India.
CM Nayab Singh Saini -: CM stands for Chief Minister, who is the head of the government in a state in India. Nayab Singh Saini is the current Chief Minister of Haryana.
Sub-Classification -: Sub-classification means dividing a larger group into smaller groups. In this context, it refers to dividing the Scheduled Castes (SC) into smaller categories for job reservations.
SC Reservations -: SC Reservations are special provisions in India that reserve a certain percentage of government jobs and educational seats for Scheduled Castes, who are historically disadvantaged communities.
Supreme Court -: The Supreme Court is the highest judicial court in India. It makes important decisions on legal matters that affect the whole country.
Chief Justice DY Chandrachud -: DY Chandrachud is the Chief Justice of India, which means he is the head judge of the Supreme Court. He leads the court in making important legal decisions.
Creamy Layer -: The ‘creamy layer’ refers to the wealthier and more educated members within a reserved category, like SC/ST, who may not need reservation benefits as much as others.
Constitutional Provisions -: Constitutional provisions are rules and laws written in the Constitution of India, which is the supreme law of the country. They guide how the country is governed.
