Affirmative action, Features, Articles

Affirmative action refers to a set of policies and measures aimed at promoting social equality by providing opportunities to historically disadvantaged groups, especially in education, employment, and public representation. In India, it primarily benefits Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) through reservations in government jobs, educational institutions, and legislatures. The objective is to correct historical injustices, ensure equal participation, and uplift marginalized communities. Affirmative action is based on the principles of social justice and equality enshrined in the Indian Constitution, especially under Articles 15(4), 16(4), and 46. It continues to be a subject of debate, balancing merit with social inclusion in a diverse society.

Features of Affirmative action:

• Promotes Social Justice

Affirmative action aims to promote social justice by providing equal opportunities to communities that have faced historical discrimination and marginalization. It ensures that Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes receive representation in education, employment, and politics. By addressing systemic inequalities, it helps uplift underprivileged groups and enables them to compete on a more level playing field. This feature is rooted in the constitutional commitment to equality and inclusive development.

• Constitutional Backing

Affirmative action in India has strong constitutional support, particularly through Articles 15(4), 16(4), and 46. These provisions empower the State to make special provisions for the advancement of socially and educationally backward classes. Article 335 also allows for relaxed qualifications in certain cases to ensure SCs and STs get fair chances in public employment. This legal framework gives affirmative action its legitimacy and binds the government to pursue inclusive and equitable policies.

• Reservation Policy

A key feature of affirmative action in India is the reservation policy, which allocates a specific percentage of seats in education, jobs, and legislatures to SCs, STs, and OBCs. Currently, reservations include 15% for SCs, 7.5% for STs, and 27% for OBCs, with recent provisions for 10% EWS (Economically Weaker Sections). These quotas help ensure adequate representation and address underrepresentation in critical areas of public life. This system is intended as a temporary but necessary measure to achieve equality.

• Reduces Socio-Economic Disparities

Affirmative action works to reduce socio-economic disparities by uplifting marginalized communities through access to quality education, jobs, and resources. By offering targeted support, it helps break the cycle of poverty and exclusion. Improved economic status and literacy rates among beneficiaries have led to greater social mobility, contributing to a more balanced and inclusive society. Over time, this approach is expected to narrow the gap between privileged and disadvantaged groups, fostering national development.