SC Sub-Categorisation in Telangana

Context

• Telangana Assembly passed the Scheduled Castes (Rationalisation of Reservation) Bill, 2025 to sub-categorise SC reservations.
• Follows a 2024 Supreme Court ruling allowing states to classify SCs for equitable reservation.

Key Provisions

• SC reservation (15%) now split into:
  • Group I: 1% for the most disadvantaged SCs (3.288% of SC population).
  • Group II: 9% for moderately disadvantaged SCs (62.748% of SC population).
  • Group III: 5% for relatively better-off SCs (33.963% of SC population).

Background & Legal Evolution

• 1975 (Punjab): First SC sub-categorisation, prioritizing Balmiki & Mazhbi Sikhs.
• 2004: SC struck down Andhra Pradesh's attempt (E.V. Chinnaiah case).
• 2024: SC upheld SC sub-classification, allowing states to distribute benefits fairly.

Significance

• Ensures fair distribution of reservations among SCs.
• Legally validated by SC, setting a precedent for other states.

This move aims to prioritize the most disadvantaged SCs, making reservations more equitable.