Union Cabinet Confirms: No Creamy Layer Provision in SC/ST Quota

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, discussed the Supreme Court's recent judgement on the sub-categorisation of reservations for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs). Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that the Constitution, as framed by B R Ambedkar, does not include a provision for a creamy layer in SC-ST reservations.

Commitment to Constitutional Provisions

Vaishnaw emphasised that the NDA government remains committed to the constitutional provisions established by Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar. He reiterated that any reservation for SCs and STs should align strictly with these constitutional guidelines. The Cabinet's stance is clear: there is no room for a creamy layer within these reservations.

Earlier on Friday, a group of SC and ST MPs met with Prime Minister Modi to discuss the Supreme Court's judgement and its implications. Following this meeting, Modi posted on X, "Met a delegation of SC/ST MPs today. Reiterated our commitment and resolve for the welfare and empowerment of the SC/ST communities."

Supreme Court's Judgement

This month, a seven-judge Bench of the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud, ruled in a 6:1 majority that state governments could sub-classify communities within the SC list based on empirical data. Justice B R Gavai, in a separate but concurring judgement, noted that states should develop policies to identify the creamy layer among SCs and STs and exclude them from reservation benefits.

BJP Rajya Sabha member Sikander Kumar expressed concerns over the Supreme Court's observations. He mentioned receiving numerous calls from people worried about the matter. Kumar stated that during their meeting with the prime minister, they conveyed these concerns and were assured that the government would not implement the apex court's observation.

Delegation's Concerns

The delegation of MPs representing SCs and STs voiced their apprehensions to Prime Minister Modi at Parliament. BJP MP Faggan Singh Kulaste revealed that their memorandum urged the prime minister to ensure that the Supreme Court's observation regarding the creamy layer is not enforced. Kulaste quoted Modi as saying, "He assured us that he will look into the matter and asked us not to worry, saying it will not be implemented in the SC and ST category."

When questioned if any legislative changes were being planned regarding this issue, Vaishnaw responded that it was a well-considered view of the Cabinet. He did not provide details on whether specific legislative actions would follow.

The Union Cabinet's discussion reflects its dedication to maintaining reservation policies as originally intended by B R Ambedkar. This stance aims to ensure that all underprivileged sections within SCs and STs receive equitable opportunities without further sub-classification or exclusion based on economic status.

The government's position underscores its commitment to upholding constitutional provisions while addressing concerns raised by representatives of SC and ST communities.