Congress to Decide Stand on SC Sub-Categorisation Verdict

The Congress party's senior leaders discussed the recent Supreme Court decision permitting states to sub-categorize within Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs). They will finalize their position after consultations with key party members and societal groups. The meeting also covered the demand for a nationwide caste census and altering reservation caps.

On Tuesday, top Congress leaders delved into the Supreme Court's ruling that allows states to create sub-categories within the SC and ST communities. The party plans to finalize its stance in the coming weeks following comprehensive discussions spearheaded by AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge.

Last Thursday, the Supreme Court, in a significant verdict, affirmed that states could constitutionally make sub-classifications within the Scheduled Castes to facilitate reservations for those more socially and educationally disadvantaged. This overruled a 2004 decision that viewed SCs as a homogeneous group.

Senior Congress figures, including Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, gathered to talk through the implications. Discussions highlighted a continued push for a nationwide caste census and amending the constitution to remove the cap on reservations. The party aims to consult further with state leaders and civil groups before deciding.