The Congress party is set to hold a crucial meeting today to devise its strategy following the Supreme Court’s recent decision regarding the reservation policy for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs). This high-level meeting will take place at the residence of Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge at 6:30 p.m.
Key party leaders, including Kharge, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, and senior MPs KC Venugopal, Jairam Ramesh, and others, will gather to deliberate on the implications of the Supreme Court's ruling. The court’s decision has sparked significant debate and requires a well-considered response from the Congress leadership.
On August 1, the Supreme Court delivered a landmark verdict stating that states have the authority to sub-classify SCs and STs. This ruling allows for the exclusion of the so-called "creamy layer" from the benefits of reservation. The court determined that while assessing the adequacy of representation, the focus should be on effective representation rather than mere numbers.
The judgement, passed by a majority of 6:1, permits sub-classification within the SCs and STs reservations, marking a departure from previous rulings. The seven-judge bench, led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, delivered this decision, overturning the earlier EV Chinnaiah case ruling which had deemed such sub-classification impermissible. This judgement reflects the court's stance on allowing states the flexibility to refine reservation policies to better address disparities.
Justice BR Gavai, one of the judges, suggested that states develop policies to identify and exclude the creamy layer within SCs and STs from the affirmative action benefits. This approach aims to ensure that reservations effectively reach those in greater need.
However, Justice Bela M. Trivedi presented a dissenting opinion, disagreeing with the majority's view on sub-classification. Her dissent highlights the ongoing debate and division within the judiciary regarding the issue.
In reaction to the Supreme Court’s decision, Union Minister Chirag Paswan has expressed his disagreement. He indicated that his party, the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), will challenge the ruling through a review petition. Similarly, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Manoj Jha has voiced his respect for the court's decision but criticised the sub-categorization as unjust and lacking empathy.
As the Congress prepares to discuss its stance and formulate a response, the outcome of today’s meeting could significantly influence the party’s approach to this contentious issue.
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