Supreme Court Sets Guidelines for SC Sub-Classifications

The Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud, has laid down guidelines for states to make sub-classifications within Scheduled Castes for quota purposes. These must be based on demonstrable data of backwardness and job representation, not political motives. States can choose between two models, both subject to judicial review.

The Supreme Court on Thursday mandated that states must base sub-classifications within Scheduled Castes for quotas on 'quantifiable and demonstrable data' of backwardness, not political convenience.

Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud stated in his 140-page judgment that while states can create these sub-classes, the decision must withstand judicial scrutiny if constitutionally challenged.

The Court proposed two models for states: preference to more backward sub-classes or exclusive reservation. Both models require the state to justify their choice with empirical data.