The Union Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has reaffirmed that the Constitution, as envisioned by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, does not include any provision for a “creamy layer” in the reservations for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs).
Following a cabinet meeting held on Friday, Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Ashwini Vaishnaw, addressed the media, highlighting the government’s stance in light of a recent Supreme Court judgment. The judgment had suggested the application of the “creamy layer” principle to SCs and STs for availing the benefits of affirmative action.
Minister Vaishnaw stated that the cabinet had thoroughly deliberated on the matter and concluded that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government remains steadfast in upholding the provisions of the Constitution.
“As per the Constitution crafted by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, there is no provision for a creamy layer within the SC-ST reservation framework,” Vaishnaw affirmed.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi met with a delegation of Members of Parliament (MPs) from SC and ST communities. During the meeting, the Prime Minister reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to the welfare and empowerment of these communities.
The delegation reportedly submitted a memorandum addressing concerns over the Supreme Court’s recent observations regarding the application of the creamy layer to SCs and STs.
Prime Minister Modi took to social media platform X to share details of the meeting, stating, “Met a delegation of SC/ST MPs today. Reiterated our commitment and resolve for the welfare and empowerment of the SC/ST communities.”
The Supreme Court, on August 1, had proposed the application of the creamy layer principle to Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in the context of affirmative action benefits. The 7-judge Constitution Bench had been examining whether sub-classification within reserved categories to provide more focused benefits would be constitutionally permissible.
In a 6:1 majority decision, the bench overturned its 2004 judgment, which had previously ruled against offering preferential treatment to certain sub-castes within SCs.
