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INTRODUCTION
A system of reformative action designed to improve the educational, social, and economic status of historically marginalized and underprivileged communities. According to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar- "Reservations are a necessary tool to rectify historical injustices faced by marginalized communities.
Categories of reservation in India
Horizontal categories- women, physically disabled-servicemen
In 2019, the government introduced a 10% reservation for economically weaker sections (EWS) among the general category.
History of reservation in India
In 1882, William Hunter and Jyotirmoy Phule first proposed the idea of a caste-based reservation system to uplift marginalized communities. The modern system took shape in 1933 when British Prime Minister Ramsay MacDonald introduced the Communal Award, creating separate electorates for various groups, including Dalits. After negotiations, the Poona Pact between Gandhi and Ambedkar led to reserved seats for Dalits within a unified Hindu electorate. Post-independence, reservations were initially provided only for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs). In 1991, the Mandal Commission's recommendations expanded the system to include Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
Constitutional provisions- Articles 15(4) and 16(4) of the Indian Constitution permit the government to create special provisions to advance socially and educationally backward classes, including Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs). These articles facilitate reservations in both educational institutions and public sector jobs. The Mandal Commission, set up in 1979, proposed a 27% reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in central government positions and educational institutions. When this recommendation was put into effect in 1990, it aimed to address the underrepresentation of OBCs and promote their inclusion. The policy ignited considerable debate and protests but was a significant step forward in India's efforts to provide equitable opportunities for these communities.
Types of reservation
1. Educational Institutions
SCs and STs: Reserved seats in schools, colleges, and universities for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.OBCs: Seats reserved for Other Backward Classes in educational institutions.
EWS: 10% reservation for economically weaker sections in general category
2. Government Jobs
SCs and STs: Reserved positions in central and state government jobs.OBCs: Reserved positions in government jobs for Other Backward Classes.
EWS: 10% reservation in government jobs for economically weaker sections.
3. Other Areas
Politics: Reserved seats for SCs and STs in legislative bodies.Public Sector: Reserved positions in public sector companies and enterprises for SCs, STs, and OBCs.
Benefits and challenges of reservation
1. Socio-Economic Upliftment
Benefits: Improves access to education and jobs for disadvantaged groups, boosting their economic status.2. Representation and Inclusion
Benefits: Ensures diverse representation in education, government, and public sectors.Challenges: Can sometimes lead to division and may not fully achieve equal opportunities.
3. Merit vs. Reservation Debate
Benefits: Helps level the playing field for historically disadvantaged groups.Challenges: Criticized for potentially overlooking merit and affecting candidate quality.
4. Issues of Overlapping and Creamy Layer
Benefits: Aims to target support to those most in need, with flexibility for adjustments.Challenges: The "creamy layer" issue and overlapping categories can lead to confusion and unequal benefits.
Global Perspectives on Affirmative Action
1. Comparison with Other Countries
United States: Uses affirmative action to boost opportunities for minorities and women in education and jobs. This approach has improved representation but also sparked debates about fairness and merit.South Africa: Post-apartheid policies aim to correct racial imbalances with quotas in various sectors, enhancing opportunities for black South Africans.
Brazil: Implements quotas in universities and government jobs to support Afro-Brazilians and indigenous groups, addressing racial and socio-economic gaps.
2. Lessons Learned from International Experiences
Balancing Equity and Merit: It’s important to balance fairness with maintaining high standards.Comprehensive Approach: Combining affirmative action with broader reforms can tackle deeper issues like poverty and education inequality.
Ongoing Evaluation: Regularly reviewing and adjusting policies ensures they effectively meet their goals and adapt to changing needs.
Future of Reservation
1. Emerging Debates and Discussions
Effectiveness: Questions are raised about whether current reservations effectively reach those in need.Merit vs. Equity: Ongoing debate on balancing merit with social justice in reservations
2. Potential Reforms and Alternatives
Income-Based Reservations: Shifting from caste-based to income-based reservations to address economic disparities.Dynamic Quotas: Adjusting quotas based on changing socio-economic conditions.
3. Role of Education and Awareness
Education: Enhancing understanding of reservation benefits and goals.Awareness: Raising awareness about challenges faced by marginalized communities for more informed policy discussions.
Importance of a Balanced Approach
A balanced approach to reservation is crucial to ensure that it effectively supports marginalized groups while maintaining high standards. This means addressing both social justice and merit concerns, and ensuring policies are inclusive and fair.Call to Action
Encourage Discussion: Foster open dialogue about the strengths and limitations of current reservation policies to find common ground and improve them.Policy Recommendations: Advocate for thoughtful reforms, such as income-based reservations or dynamic quotas, and promote regular reviews to adapt to changing needs and conditions.
Case Studies and Examples
1. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
Background: Dr. Ambedkar, a Dalit leader, used reservations to achieve higher education and become a major figure in Indian politics.Impact: His success, including drafting the Constitution, shows how reservations can empower individuals from marginalized communities.
2. IIT and IIM Graduates
Background: Many SC, ST, and OBC students have graduated from top institutions like IITs and IIMs.Impact: These graduates often go on to high-profile careers, demonstrating the benefits of reservations for career advancement.
3. Political Representation of SC/ST Leaders
Background: Reservations in legislatures have allowed leaders like Mayawati and Ram Vilas Paswan to represent SCs and STs.Impact: Their presence in politics helps address the needs of marginalized communities.
4. Indra Sawhney Case (1992)
Background: The Supreme Court case upheld OBC reservations but set a 50% cap and included the “creamy layer” exclusion.Impact: This ruling shaped the framework for reservations, balancing inclusivity with merit6