Haryana Becomes First State to Implement Dalit Sub-Quotas

In a landmark move, Haryana has become the first state to implement sub-quotas for the Dalit community by subclassifying the Scheduled Castes (SCs). The decision follows the Supreme Court’s August 2023 ruling, granting states the power to divide SCs and STs for preferential reservations. Haryana’s move, backed by a state commission’s recommendations, is aimed at addressing the underrepresentation of the “Deprived Scheduled Castes” (DSC), who are more marginalized in employment sectors compared to “Other Scheduled Castes” (OSC). The state has divided the SC community into two groups: DSC, which includes 36 castes like Balmikis and Dhanaks, and OSC, which includes castes such as Chamars and Jatavs.

This initiative, previously postponed during Haryana’s election period, is now active, ensuring that each subgroup gets 50% of the 20% SC quota for government jobs. It signifies a crucial step toward equitable distribution of benefits within the SC community, in line with the Supreme Court’s directive that reservations be linked to caste-based underrepresentation.

Historical Background

In 2020, Haryana had enacted legislation to reserve 50% of the SC quota in higher education institutions for the deprived groups. The state’s recent decision follows the apex court’s August 2023 verdict, which overturned the 2004 Chinnaiah case that had previously prevented such subclassifications. The court’s majority ruling recognized the socio-economic diversity within SC/ST communities, paving the way for targeted benefits to the most disadvantaged subgroups.

Political and Social Implications

This move comes as part of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s strategy to secure SC votes, contributing to its recent electoral success. Critics, such as Congress MLA Geeta Bhukkal, argue that the division may fragment the SC community, accusing the government of using the issue for political gains. However, the BJP maintains that the focus is on empowering the most backward sections within SCs and ensuring they receive their rightful representation in government jobs.

Implementation and Future Impact

The state will now issue a notification to divide the SC quota, with the aim of reducing the underrepresentation of DSCs in government sectors. With a significant proportion of DSCs underrepresented in higher posts, the move seeks to create a more balanced employment landscape, breaking the cycle of occupational ascription to birth. The decision holds considerable political weight as states like Maharashtra are also considering similar reforms.