The state government argues that OBCs constitute over 56% of the population but remain underrepresented in government jobs and education.
Proposed Increase in OBC Reservation
- Current Status: Madhya Pradesh currently provides a 14% reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
- Proposed Change: The state government has filed an affidavit in the Supreme Court seeking to raise the OBC reservation to 27%.
- Legal Challenge: This move would take the state’s total reservation beyond the 50% cap established by the Supreme Court.
State’s Justification for the Move
- Population Representation: The government argues that OBCs make up over 56% of the state’s population.
- Underrepresentation: Despite their majority, OBCs are significantly underrepresented in government jobs and educational institutions.
- Extraordinary Circumstances: The state cites “extraordinary circumstances” to justify exceeding the 50% reservation limit.
Legal Implications
- Supreme Court’s Role: The Supreme Court will review the state’s affidavit and decide on the legality of exceeding the 50% reservation cap.
- Potential Precedent: A favorable ruling could pave the way for other states to seek similar increases in OBC reservations.
