Supreme Court has given historical verdict on SC and ST classification
The Supreme Court has delivered a historic judgment allowing states to sub-categorize Scheduled Castes (SCs) that is SC and ST classification. This decision was made by a seven-judge bench, led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, on the validity of SC classification. The judgment follows a three-day hearing in February, where the central government argued in favor of the classification.
The Supreme Court, which had reserved its judgment on February 8 after extensive arguments, announced the decision today. The bench ruled with a majority of 6:1 that sub-classification of SCs and Scheduled Tribes (STs) is necessary for reservations in education and employment. Chief Justice Chandrachud emphasized that such classification does not disrupt the principle of equality and does not violate Article 14 of the Constitution. Additionally, the classification is not contrary to Articles 341 and 342, and Articles 15 and 16 do not prohibit such measures.
Justice Bhushan Gavai highlighted the need for states to develop a specific policy to identify the “creamy layer” within SC and ST communities. This judgment also sets aside the earlier ruling in the ‘EV Chinnaiah vs State of Andhra Pradesh’ case, which had been in place for two decades.
Manda Krishnamadiga became emotional
Manda Krishna Madiga became emotional upon hearing the Supreme Court’s verdict on SC and ST classification. Speaking to the media, he expressed that justice had been served after their 30-year struggle. He remarked that the Supreme Court’s judgment had vindicated their cause.
The issue of sub-quotas within the reservation system has been contentious, with numerous cases brought to court over the years. The MMPS had approached the Supreme Court seeking recognition for sub-classification. Additionally, the Punjab government also filed a case on this matter. In February, the Supreme Court heard three days of arguments on the issue.
In a related development, Prime Minister Modi supported the idea of SC classification during the Madiga Vishwarupa Sabha in Hyderabad, ahead of the Telangana Assembly elections. He stated that the demand for SC classification is fair and that the central government is actively working to secure a favorable verdict in the Supreme Court.
