Author – Pragati Singh, Student at Amity University, Lucknow
Co-Author – Dr. Sheeba Khalid, Assistant Professor at Amity University, Lucknow
ABSTRACT
The policy of reservation in India has remained a subject of intense debate, shaping the country’s socio-political and legal landscape. Originally introduced as a mechanism to uplift historically marginalized communities, the reservation system has evolved significantly, often intertwining with electoral politics, judicial scrutiny, and socio-economic challenges. This paper critically examines the politics of reservation, exploring its historical evolution, legal framework, and socio-political implications.
The study delves into the constitutional provisions governing reservation, including Articles 15, 16, 330, and 342, alongside landmark Supreme Court judgments such as Indra Sawhney v. Union of India and M. Nagaraj v. Union of India, which have shaped the legal contours of affirmative action in India. The research also highlights the growing politicization of reservations, where policy decisions are often influenced by electoral compulsions rather than social justice considerations. The expansion of reservation to Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) has further fueled debates on whether the system aligns with its original objectives or has become an instrument of political appeasement.
A critical analysis of the reservation versus meritocracy debate underscores the challenges of balancing social justice with efficiency in the education and employment sectors. The paper also compares India’s affirmative action policies with similar measures in countries like the United States, South Africa, and Brazil, offering a global perspective on the effectiveness of such policies. Additionally, the research examines recent legislative and judicial trends, including the 103rd Constitutional Amendment, which introduced EWS reservations, assessing its implications on existing social hierarchies.
Through this study, the paper argues for a reassessment of reservation policies, emphasizing the need for data-driven, inclusive, and dynamic reforms that prioritize economic and social backwardness over rigid caste-based classifications.
This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on reservation policies, legal challenges, and their intersection with political agendas, providing a comprehensive analysis of one of India’s most contentious socio-legal issues.
Keywords: Reservation, Uplift, Politicization, Meritocracy, Backwardness.
