Reservation for SC/ST(23%), OBC(27%), EWS(10%) and Women (33% within) It’s Relevance

Reservation in India refers to a constitutionally backed system of affirmative action that provides preferential access to education, employment, and political representation for historically disadvantaged groups such as Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS). It aims to reduce social and economic inequalities, ensuring equal opportunity and representation for marginalized communities. Enshrined in Articles 15(4), 16(4), 46, 330, 332, and 335 of the Constitution, the reservation system promotes social justice, corrects past discrimination, and upholds the values of equality and inclusiveness in a diverse democracy.

Addressing Historical Injustice (SC/ST – 23%)

The reservation of 15% for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and 7.5% for Scheduled Tribes (STs) helps rectify centuries of social exclusion, discrimination, and untouchability. These communities were historically denied access to education, employment, and public life. Reservations ensure social justice, provide opportunities in government jobs and education, and encourage their active participation in democratic governance. Without reservation, SCs and STs would remain underrepresented in power structures.

Promoting Social Mobility (OBC – 27%)

Other Backward Classes (OBCs) often face socio-economic challenges like limited access to education, land, and income opportunities. The 27% reservation for OBCs aims to reduce inequality and promote upward mobility by ensuring their inclusion in public services and institutions. It helps balance the over-representation of upper castes in state apparatus and promotes diversity and equity in decision-making. It also aids in fulfilling the Directive Principles of State Policy (Article 46).

Economic Inclusion (EWS – 10%)

The 10% reservation for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) among the unreserved/general category addresses economic disadvantage irrespective of caste. Introduced through the 103rd Constitutional Amendment (2019), it ensures that even those from upper castes facing poverty can benefit from government opportunities. This is relevant in modern India where economic hardship cuts across caste lines. It adds a class dimension to affirmative action, balancing merit with inclusion.

Gender Representation (Women – 33%)

The 33% reservation for women in Panchayati Raj Institutions (and soon in legislatures through the Women’s Reservation Act, 2023) addresses patriarchal exclusion. Women have been underrepresented in politics and leadership despite constituting nearly half the population. This reservation ensures their political empowerment, enhances their decision-making role, and leads to more gender-sensitive governance. In many states, similar reservations for women exist in jobs and education, promoting gender equality.

Overall Relevance

• Ensures inclusive development and representation of all sections.

• Creates a level playing field in a highly unequal society.

• Fulfills constitutional values of equality, justice, and dignity.

• Helps build a diverse, democratic, and socially just public administration.

• Acts as a tool of social engineering to achieve unity in diversity.