Economic criteria can supplement but not substitute caste-based affirmative action. Critically assess this claim in the backdrop of judicial calls for identifying a ‘creamy layer’ among SC/ST communities.
Kartavya Desk Staff
Topic: Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.
Topic: Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.
Q3. Economic criteria can supplement but not substitute caste-based affirmative action. Critically assess this claim in the backdrop of judicial calls for identifying a ‘creamy layer’ among SC/ST communities. (15 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: TH
Why the question Supreme Court’s ongoing examination of pleas for introducing a creamy layer concept within SC/ST reservations, reflecting the tension between economic prioritisation and caste-based affirmative action. Key demand of the question Critically evaluate the claim that economic criteria can enhance but not replace caste-based affirmative action, and assess it in light of judicial calls for identifying a creamy layer among SC/ST, while suggesting a balanced way forward. Structure of the Answer: Introduction Briefly highlight the constitutional basis of caste-based affirmative action and the emerging debate on economic targeting within it. Body Economic criteria can supplement but not substitute caste-based affirmative action – constitutional rationale, targeted poverty alleviation, equitable benefit spread. Critical assessment in backdrop of judicial calls for creamy layer – present arguments supporting and opposing economic filters within SC/ST quota. Way forward – suggest a calibrated model combining caste safeguards with economic prioritisation, legal clarity, and strong anti-discrimination enforcement. Conclusion End with a forward-looking note on ensuring affirmative action remains equitable, constitutionally sound, and socially transformative.
Why the question Supreme Court’s ongoing examination of pleas for introducing a creamy layer concept within SC/ST reservations, reflecting the tension between economic prioritisation and caste-based affirmative action.
Key demand of the question Critically evaluate the claim that economic criteria can enhance but not replace caste-based affirmative action, and assess it in light of judicial calls for identifying a creamy layer among SC/ST, while suggesting a balanced way forward.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly highlight the constitutional basis of caste-based affirmative action and the emerging debate on economic targeting within it.
• Economic criteria can supplement but not substitute caste-based affirmative action – constitutional rationale, targeted poverty alleviation, equitable benefit spread.
• Critical assessment in backdrop of judicial calls for creamy layer – present arguments supporting and opposing economic filters within SC/ST quota.
• Way forward – suggest a calibrated model combining caste safeguards with economic prioritisation, legal clarity, and strong anti-discrimination enforcement.
Conclusion
End with a forward-looking note on ensuring affirmative action remains equitable, constitutionally sound, and socially transformative.