Supreme Court Allows Sub-Classification in SC/ST Reservations by 6-1 Majority

Aug 1, 2024, 05:43 AM

The Supreme Court of India, in a significant ruling, has allowed sub-classification within the Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) for reservation purposes. The decision, delivered by a 7-judge bench with a 6-1 majority, overturns a previous ruling that held sub-classification as violative of constitutional norms. Chief Justice DY Chandrachud announced the verdict, noting that Justice Bela Trivedi dissented. The Court held that SCs and STs are not homogenous groups and that governments can sub-classify them to provide more weightage in reservations to those who have suffered greater discrimination. The basis for such sub-classification must be justified by quantifiable and demonstrable data provided by the states. This ruling overturns the EV Chinnaiah case and allows for 'Quota within Quota' in the 15% reservation for SCs.