Telangana first state to implement SC categorisation, issues orders
Telangana Becomes the First State to Implement SC Categorization
On Monday, Telangana made a historic decision by issuing a government order (GO) to implement Scheduled Castes (SC) categorization. Telangana is the first state in India to officially implement this system, setting a significant precedent. Minister of Irrigation N Uttam Kumar Reddy, who led the initiative, made the announcement.
The Formation of the SC Categorization Commission
Earlier, the Telangana government appointed a commission to study the categorization of Scheduled Castes. Justice Shameem Akther, a retired High Court judge, led this commission, which carefully reviewed the SC communities in the state. Based on the commission’s findings, the government decided to divide the 59 SC communities into three distinct groups. Each group will receive a separate quota for government jobs and educational opportunities.
The Categorization Structure
The categorization follows this clear structure:
- Group-I: This group includes 15 SC communities that face the most significant social, economic, and educational disadvantages. These communities will receive a 1% reservation in government jobs and educational institutions.
- Group-II: This group consists of 18 SC communities that have made moderate progress. They will receive a 9% reservation to ensure they get fair representation in government services and education.
- Group-III: The largest group, Group-III, includes 26 SC communities that have made significant advancements in social, economic, and educational areas. These communities will receive a 5% reservation.
A Historic Day for Telangana
This decision to implement SC categorization aligns with the birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution. Dr. Ambedkar advocated for the upliftment of marginalized communities, especially the Scheduled Castes. Minister Reddy highlighted that this move honors Ambedkar’s vision of equality and justice.
Telangana Leads the Way
This decision follows a favorable ruling from the Supreme Court, which supported the idea of categorizing SC communities for more targeted reservation policies. Telangana has now become the first state to take action, setting an example for other states to consider similar measures.
Minister Reddy assured that, from now on, all vacancies in state government jobs will be filled based on the new SC categorization system. This will ensure that the most disadvantaged SC communities get priority, while still offering representation to other communities within the SC category.
Addressing Disparities Within SC Communities
The new categorization addresses disparities within the SC communities by ensuring that resources and opportunities are distributed more equitably. By dividing the SC communities into three groups, Telangana allows for targeted support where it’s needed most.
The Impact on Employment and Education
The categorization will directly impact employment and education in Telangana. Government job vacancies and educational institution admissions will now be based on the categorization system. This shift will provide a fairer system that prioritizes the most disadvantaged SC communities, while maintaining opportunities for others.
Minister Reddy explained that the categorization aims to provide balanced opportunities for the most marginalized groups, reducing disparities within the SC communities. The government’s focus is on ensuring that each group receives the benefits they need, based on their specific socio-economic challenges.
Rejecting the Creamy Layer Exemption
The Telangana Legislature decided not to exempt the “creamy layer” (wealthier members) of the SC communities from reservations. Some had suggested that wealthier individuals should not benefit from the reservation system, but the government chose to include all SC communities, regardless of their economic status. This decision ensures fair opportunities for everyone.
Looking Ahead: The Future of SC Categorization
The government will review the impact of the categorization system regularly. If the SC population increases in the 2026 census, the government will adjust the reservations accordingly to meet the growing need.
Minister Reddy pointed out that earlier governments had only passed resolutions on SC categorization without implementing them. However, the current government took the decisive step of issuing a government order to implement the categorization immediately.
Setting a Precedent for Other States
Telangana’s decision to implement SC categorization could encourage other states to adopt similar measures. By categorizing the SC communities, the state has shown that it’s possible to provide more targeted reservations, recognizing the diverse needs of different sections within the SC community.
Conclusion: A Step Toward Social Justice
Telangana’s SC categorization is a historic move that could transform the landscape of employment and education in the state. By implementing this system, Telangana demonstrates its commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for all SC communities. This decision sets a strong example for other states to follow, proving that meaningful change can happen when governments act based on thorough research and consultation.
rization marks a historic achievement in the state’s journey toward social justice. By implementing this system, Telangana demonstrates its commitment to providing equal opportunities for all SC communities. This decision sets a strong example for other states to follow, showing that meaningful changes can happen when governments act based on research and careful consultation.
