Hyderabad, February 2025: In a landmark move towards social justice and equitable development, the Telangana Legislative Assembly has unanimously passed the Scheduled Castes (Rationalisation of Reservations) Bill, 2025, making Telangana the first state to implement the sub-categorisation of Scheduled Castes (SCs).
Understanding the Sub-Categorisation Framework
The Bill introduces a structured division of 59 SC communities into three distinct groups, aiming to tailor reservation benefits more effectively based on social, economic, and educational standings:
- Group I: Comprises 15 of the most disadvantaged SC communities, accounting for 3.288% of the SC population. This group has been allocated a 1% reservation within the 15% SC quota.
- Group II: Encompasses 18 moderately disadvantaged SC communities, representing 62.74% of the SC population, with a 9% reservation.
- Group III: Includes 26 SC communities that are relatively better off, making up 33.963% of the SC population, with a 5% reservation.
This categorisation seeks to address historical inequities and ensure that reservation benefits reach those who are most in need.
Process Leading to the Bill’s Passage
The initiative gained momentum following a Supreme Court ruling that empowered states to sub-classify SCs and Scheduled Tribes (STs) for reservation purposes. In response, the Telangana government formed a one-member Judicial Commission led by retired High Court judge Justice Shameem Akhtar to study the implications and recommend a suitable framework. After thorough consultations and data collection, the commission proposed the three-group categorisation model, which was subsequently approved by the state cabinet.
Government’s Stance on ‘Creamy Layer’ Concept
An important aspect of the commission’s recommendations was the introduction of the ‘creamy layer’ concept, which suggests excluding more affluent members within the SC community from reservation benefits. However, the Telangana government has chosen to reject this proposal, aligning with its commitment to uphold social justice and inclusivity.
Significance of the Legislative Development
The passage of this Bill is hailed as a historic achievement, reflecting the government’s dedication to addressing the nuanced needs of various SC communities. Senior minister Damodar Raja Narasimha emphasized that this move is not against any particular caste but is a step towards ensuring equitable opportunities for all, citing the Congress party’s longstanding support for Dalit upliftment, including the appointment of Damodaram Sanjeevaiah as the first Dalit Chief Minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh over 50 years ago.
Looking Ahead: Implementation and Future Plans
With the Bill’s passage, the Telangana government is poised to implement the sub-categorisation, aiming for a more equitable distribution of reservation benefits. Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has indicated plans to enhance the SC reservation quota from 15% to 18%, based on data from the upcoming 2026 census, further reinforcing the state’s commitment to social justice.
This progressive step by Telangana sets a precedent for other states, highlighting the importance of tailored policies that address the diverse needs within the Scheduled Castes, and reaffirming the state’s role as a forerunner in social reform.
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