4) The policy of reservation has transformed from an affirmative action policy to an anti poverty measure. Critically examine. (250 words)

Topic–  Indian polity issues

4) The policy of reservation has transformed from an affirmative action policy to an anti poverty measure. Critically examine. (250 words)

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Why this question

The recent decision of the government to introduce 10% reservation for economically weaker section in general category marks another chapter in the never ending reservation saga and needs to be analyzed.

Key demand of the question

The question expects us to discuss the policy of reservation and examine whether the policy has transformed from a policy meant to provide a level playing field for those suffering from historical discrimination and those who are weaker sections of the society to a policy meant as a dole for those sections of society who are are poor and lack jobs.

Directive word

Critically examine – When you are asked to examine, you have to probe deeper into the topic,  get into details, and find out the causes or implications if any . When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, all you need to do is look at the good and bad of something and give a fair judgement.

Structure of the answer

Introduction – Explain about the recent measure to introduce 10% reservation for economically weaker section in general category.

Body

• Explain in detail the measures taken by the government
  • Those who have an annual salary of less than ₹8 lakh per year and possess less than 5 acres of land will be able to avail themselves of reservation in educational institutions and jobs.
  • A Constitution Amendment Bill was approved by the Cabinet in this regard.
  • The Bill will also cover those from the Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Buddhist and other minority communities.
  • The quota will be over and above the existing 50% reservation to the Scheduled Castes, the Scheduled Tribes and the Other Backward Classes (OBC).
• Examine whether the policy is in contravention to the Indra Sawhney judgement and what the judgement says regarding reservation for economically weaker section
• Examine whether the policy has transformed from a policy meant to provide a level playing field for those suffering from historical discrimination and those who are weaker sections of the society to a policy meant as a dole for those sections of society who are are poor and lack jobs.

Conclusion – Give a fair and balanced view and discuss way forward.