Abstract

India’s caste reservation system is a form of affirmative action designed to mitigate historical injustices and social exclusion faced by marginalized communities, particularly Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC). Rooted in constitutional provisions promoting equality and social justice, the system reserves seats in educational institutions, government employment, and legislatures to ensure greater representation and opportunities for disadvantaged groups. While the reservation system has significantly contributed to reducing socio-economic disparities, it remains a subject of debate regarding its effectiveness, fairness, and potential for reverse discrimination. Judicial interventions have played a crucial role in refining the policy by introducing sub-classifications and economic reservations, ensuring a more equitable distribution of benefits. This paper examines the historical context, constitutional framework, socio-economic impact, and judicial interpretations of caste-based reservations in India. It also explores potential reforms to enhance inclusivity and efficiency while maintaining the fundamental objective of social justice.

Keywords: Caste reservation, Social exclusion, Affirmative action, Equality, Judicial interventions