Subclassification of Scheduled Castes in India

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Questions and Answers

With reference to the recent judgment on sub-classification of Scheduled Castes, which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. Sub-classification of SCs was initially prohibited by the Supreme Court in the E.V. Chinnaiah case. 2. Sub-classification within SCs does not violate Article 341(2) of the Constitution. 3. The objective of sub-classification is to promote economic welfare only.

1 and 3 only

1 and 2 only (correct)

2 and 3 only

1, 2, and 3

The judgment in the Davinder Singh vs State of Punjab case deals with:

Grant of anticipatory bail to SC/ST members.

Protection of land rights of SC/ST members.

Permissibility of sub-classification within Scheduled Castes for reservation. (correct)

Implementation of the creamy layer principle in SC/ST reservations.

According to the recent Supreme Court judgment, sub-classification of SCs is allowed based on which of the following? 1. Adequate representation of certain castes within SCs. 2. The level of socio-economic backwardness. 3. The geographical region of the castes.

1 and 2 only (correct)

1 only

1, 2, and 3

2 only

Which of the following is a key constitutional provision related to the classification of Scheduled Castes?

Article 341(2) Signup and view all the answers

The E.V. Chinnaiah judgment of 2005 held that:

SCs form a homogenous group and cannot be sub-categorized further. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following justifies the sub-classification of SCs? 1. It helps address the inadequate representation of certain SC groups in services. 2. It ensures equal opportunities for all SC groups irrespective of their backwardness. 3. It helps reduce social inequality among SC groups.

1 and 3 only Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following arguments is against the sub-classification of SCs?

Sub-classification could weaken the unity of SC communities. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of the sub-classification of SCs, the term 'substantive equality' refers to:

Providing differentiated benefits to ensure real equality. Signup and view all the answers

According to the Supreme Court's decision on sub-classification, which of the following can be subjected to judicial review?

The method of sub-classification adopted by the State. Signup and view all the answers

The Supreme Court's ruling on sub-classification suggests that:

The government must collect data on the inadequacy of representation for sub-classification. Signup and view all the answers

The introduction of the 'creamy layer' concept in SC reservations was discussed in the Supreme Court by:

A minority of four judges on the Bench. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is correct regarding the scope of the Supreme Court's ruling on sub-classification?

States have the discretion to sub-classify SCs within their jurisdictions. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following constitutional articles allows the President to specify SCs for different states?

Article 341(1) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was highlighted as a concern in opposing the sub-classification of SCs?

The dilution of SC solidarity and collective bargaining power. Signup and view all the answers

In the Davinder Singh case, the Supreme Court recommended the application of the 'creamy layer' principle to:

SC and ST categories. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Subclassification of Scheduled Castes (SCs)

Introduction: The Supreme Court's recent judgment on sub-classification within Scheduled Castes (SCs) has sparked debate. It involves the potential division of SCs into further categories based on their socio-economic conditions and representation in services.
Legal Background:
- Article 341(2) of the Indian Constitution empowers the President to specify Scheduled Castes for different states and union territories.
- E.V. Chinnaiah case (2005): The Supreme Court initially ruled against sub-classification, viewing SCs as a homogenous group.
- Davinder Singh vs State of Punjab case: The Supreme Court recognized the permissibility of sub-classification within SCs for reservation purposes.
Arguments in Favor of Sub-classification:
- Addressing Representation Imbalances: Sub-classification aims to address the inadequate representation of certain SC groups in services.
- Promoting Substantive Equality: By providing differentiated benefits, sub-classification can ensure real equality for different SC groups, addressing socio-economic backwardness.
Arguments Against Sub-classification:
- Weakening SC Solidarity: It could potentially diminish the collective bargaining power and unity of SC communities.
- Complexity and Potential for Abuse: The process of sub-classification can be complex and open to political manipulation.
Key Points:
- The Supreme Court has upheld the principle of sub-classification but emphasized the need for judicial review of the method adopted by the state.
- The decision on sub-classification is based on adequate representation of certain castes within SCs and their socio-economic backwardness.
- The 'creamy layer' concept, introduced in the context of SC reservations, could potentially apply to sub-classification.
Implications:
- States now have the discretion to sub-classify SCs within their jurisdictions, but this must be based on data and justified.
- The Supreme Court's ruling acknowledges the diversity within SC communities and the need for targeted affirmative action.
- The debate surrounding sub-classification highlights the ongoing challenge of ensuring social justice and equality in India.

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Description

Explore the Supreme Court's recent judgment regarding the sub-classification of Scheduled Castes (SCs) in India. This quiz covers legal frameworks, key cases, and arguments related to the socio-economic conditions of SC groups. Test your knowledge on this critical topic affecting representation in India.