Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The term ‘Other Backward Classes’ (OBCs) refers to a collective of castes and communities, other than Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs), who are considered educationally and socially disadvantaged. Historically marginalized due to the caste system, OBCs constitute a significant portion of the Indian population. The recognition of OBCs and the provision of reservations for them gained prominence post-independence, particularly with the Mandal Commission report in 1980, aiming to address socio-economic inequalities and ensure equitable representation in education and employment. This has been a continuously evolving area of Indian polity and social justice.
Historical Context & Identification
Prior to independence, the concept of backward classes existed, but systematic identification and categorization were lacking. Early efforts focused on identifying ‘socially and educationally backward classes’ through various provincial resolutions. Post-independence, Article 340 of the Constitution empowered the President to specify socially and educationally backward classes in each state.
Constitutional Provisions & Early Policies
Article 15(4) and 16(4), added by the 1st Amendment (1951), enabled the state to make special provisions for the advancement of socially and educationally backward classes. However, these provisions were initially interpreted narrowly. The initial focus was on identifying and providing assistance to individual backward classes rather than a comprehensive reservation policy.
The Mandal Commission (1979-1980)
The Mandal Commission, headed by B.P. Mandal, was a watershed moment. It estimated the OBC population at 52% and recommended 27% reservation in government jobs and educational institutions. This recommendation faced significant opposition, leading to widespread protests in 1990. However, the Indra Sawhney case (1992) upheld the 27% reservation, but with a caveat: the total reservation should not exceed 50% and ‘creamy layer’ exclusion should be applied.
Post-Mandal Developments & Challenges
- National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC): Established in 1993, the NCBC was tasked with examining requests for inclusion or exclusion of any class of citizens as backward classes.
- Sub-categorization within OBCs: Recognizing the uneven distribution of benefits within OBCs, the government initiated the process of sub-categorization. The Rohini Commission (2005) was appointed to examine the issue and recommend sub-categorization.
- EWS Quota: The introduction of the 10% reservation for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) in 2019, while intended to benefit the poor across all castes, has raised questions about its impact on OBC reservations.
- Judicial Scrutiny: Reservation policies continue to be subject to judicial review, with courts emphasizing the need for quantifiable data and adherence to the 50% ceiling.
Recent Developments
The 105th Constitutional Amendment in 2019 granted states the power to identify and classify socially and educationally backward classes. This amendment has led to legal challenges, with concerns raised about its potential to disrupt the existing reservation framework. The Supreme Court is currently hearing petitions challenging the validity of the amendment.
| Commission/Judgement | Key Outcome |
|---|---|
| Mandal Commission (1980) | Recommended 27% reservation for OBCs |
| Indra Sawhney Case (1992) | Upheld 27% reservation with ‘creamy layer’ exclusion and 50% ceiling |
| Rohini Commission (2005) | Recommended sub-categorization within OBCs |
| 105th Constitutional Amendment (2019) | Empowered states to identify and classify OBCs |
Conclusion
The issue of OBC reservation is complex and multifaceted, deeply intertwined with India’s social fabric and political dynamics. While reservation policies have undoubtedly contributed to the empowerment of OBCs, challenges remain in ensuring equitable distribution of benefits and addressing the concerns of sub-categories within the OBCs. The ongoing legal and political debates highlight the need for a nuanced and data-driven approach to reservation policies, balancing the principles of social justice with constitutional safeguards. A continuous review and refinement of these policies are crucial for achieving inclusive growth and a more equitable society.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.