Reservation in India

• The reservation system in India is a multifaceted policy aimed at addressing historical injustices, promoting social equity, and ensuring representation for marginalised communities. 

Historical Background

• The caste-based reservation system traces its roots to the age-old Indian caste system.

•  The idea of affirmative action emerged to uplift historically oppressed sections of society.

• Communal Award (1933): The British Prime Minister Ramsay Macdonald introduced the Communal Award, which provided separate electorates for various communities, including Dalits (then known as untouchables).

• Poona Pact (1932): After negotiations between Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, it was decided that there would be a single Hindu electorate with certain reservations for backward classes.

• Mandal Commission (1978):

-Appointed to identify socially and educationally backward classes.

-Recommended 27% reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in government jobs and educational institutions.

-Developed indicators of backwardness based on social, educational, and economic criteria.

• Indra Sawhney Case (1992):

-The Supreme Court upheld the 27% quota for OBCs but struck down the 10% reservation for economically backward classes among higher castes.

-Introduced the concept of the “creamy layer.”