Parliament

The ongoing debate over the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on sub-categorization within Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) reservations has ignited significant political discourse. At the heart of this controversy is the concept of the “creamy layer” within these communities—a notion that has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters, including Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge.

Supreme Court’s Judgment: A Double-Edged Sword?

Earlier this month, a seven-judge bench of the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, delivered a landmark judgment permitting states to sub-classify communities within the SC and ST lists based on empirical data. While this decision was largely hailed as a step towards ensuring more equitable distribution of resources, it also introduced the controversial idea of applying the “creamy layer” concept to these historically marginalized groups.

Justice BR Gavai, in a concurring judgment, argued that states should evolve a policy to identify the creamy layer within SCs and STs and deny them the benefits of reservation. This suggestion has sparked a heated debate, with many, including Kharge, condemning the idea as fundamentally flawed and detrimental to the very purpose of reservations.

Kharge’s Stand: Protecting the Essence of Reservation

Mallikarjun Kharge has been vocal in his opposition to the Supreme Court’s observation regarding the creamy layer. He asserts that this concept, if implemented, would undermine the original intent of reservations, which was to combat the entrenched social discrimination and untouchability that members of SC and ST communities have faced for centuries.

“By bringing the creamy layer concept, you are effectively denying benefits to those who have been the most marginalized,” Kharge stated, highlighting the persistent social inequalities that continue to plague these communities. He argued that the basis for reservation has always been to address untouchability and social injustice, not economic status.

Kharge’s critique extends beyond the judiciary to the legislative domain. He believes that the government should have proactively brought forth legislation to nullify the Supreme Court’s observations on the creamy layer, thereby preserving the integrity of the reservation system. “If the government can push through other bills in a matter of hours, there is no reason why they couldn’t have addressed this issue in the same session,” he remarked.

The Broader Implications: A Call for Unity

Kharge’s comments come at a time when the political landscape is fraught with discussions on the future of reservations in India. He has called for a unified stance against the creamy layer concept, urging all stakeholders to ensure that this part of the judgment does not gain traction. According to Kharge, the ongoing privatization of public sector jobs, coupled with existing vacancies that are not being filled, further exacerbates the challenges faced by SC and ST communities in securing employment.

Government’s Position: A Reaffirmation of Constitutional Provisions

In response to the Supreme Court’s judgment, the Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has reiterated its commitment to the constitutional provisions laid down by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The government has maintained that there is no provision for a creamy layer in SC and ST reservations as per the Constitution, signaling its intent to uphold the current framework.

A Complex Issue with No Easy Answers

The debate over the creamy layer in SC and ST reservations touches on deeply entrenched social issues that go beyond mere economic criteria. While the Supreme Court’s judgment seeks to address disparities within these communities, it has also opened up a complex discussion on the future of affirmative action in India.

As the Congress continues its consultations with intellectuals, experts, and NGOs, the political and social ramifications of this judgment will likely be felt for some time. Kharge’s firm stand against the creamy layer concept highlights the broader concern that any dilution of the reservation policy could undermine decades of progress towards social equality.

In a country where untouchability and discrimination are still realities for many, the battle to protect the essence of reservations is far from over.

New Delhi, June 29, 2024 — Parliament is set for a stormy session today as both houses, Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha, reconvene to address pressing national issues, with the alleged NEET-UG paper leak expected to dominate the discussions.

The proceedings of both houses were adjourned on Friday following a tumultuous session marked by the Opposition INDIA bloc’s vociferous demands for a dedicated debate on the NEET-UG issue. The adjournment came as members protested and insisted on prioritizing the discussion on the alleged irregularities in the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test-Undergraduate (NEET-UG).

NEET-UG Controversy: The Core of the Debate

Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on May 5, the NEET-UG 2024 saw around 24 lakh candidates appear for the examination. The results, announced on June 4, have been mired in controversy with allegations of question paper leaks and other significant irregularities surfacing soon after. The scandal has sparked outrage among students, parents, and political leaders alike, leading to demands for a thorough investigation and accountability.

Today’s Proceedings

When Parliament reconvenes at 11 am today, the NEET-UG issue is expected to take center stage. Opposition members from the INDIA bloc have been persistent in their calls for an extensive debate, underscoring the importance of maintaining the integrity of the nation’s education system.

In the Lok Sabha, BJP MP Anurag Thakur is slated to initiate the debate on the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address. This session is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first sitting of Parliament following the constitution of the 18th Lok Sabha. Thakur’s speech is anticipated to cover a range of topics, but the NEET-UG controversy is likely to be a focal point, given the current public and political climate.

Background and Implications

The NEET-UG examination is a critical gateway for students aspiring to pursue undergraduate medical courses across India. The integrity of such an examination is paramount, and any compromise can have far-reaching implications on students’ futures and the credibility of the educational institutions involved.

The alleged leaks and irregularities have raised serious concerns about the examination’s conduct and the measures in place to prevent such breaches. The Opposition’s insistence on a dedicated discussion reflects the urgency of addressing these concerns to restore public confidence in the system.

What to Expect

Today’s session is likely to be charged with intense debates and demands for action. The Opposition is expected to press for specific details about the investigation into the NEET-UG irregularities, accountability measures, and steps to prevent future occurrences.

The ruling party, on the other hand, will aim to navigate the discussion while highlighting the government’s broader achievements and plans as outlined in the President’s Address. The debate on the Motion of Thanks will provide a platform for both sides to present their perspectives and for the government to respond to the allegations.

Conclusion

As Parliament gears up for what promises to be a crucial session, all eyes will be on how the NEET-UG issue is addressed. The outcome of today’s discussions could have significant implications for the education sector and the political landscape.

Stay tuned for live updates and in-depth coverage of the Parliament session as the nation’s lawmakers deliberate on this critical issue.

In a significant session of the Indian Parliament, President Droupadi Murmu addressed a joint sitting on Thursday, marking her first presidential address since the BJP-led NDA government secured a third consecutive term. During her speech, President Murmu launched a pointed critique of the Emergency imposed by the Congress government in 1975, labeling it the “biggest” and “darkest” chapter in the history of India’s democracy, a direct assault on the Constitution.

Key Issues Addressed

President Murmu also touched upon contemporary concerns, notably the alleged irregularities in the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test-Undergraduate (NEET UG-2024). She assured the Parliament that the ongoing Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the NEET paper leak case would ensure accountability and transparency.

Following the President’s address, a motion of thanks was proposed in both Houses of Parliament, setting the stage for subsequent discussions among lawmakers. This session marks the commencement of the first meeting of the 18th Lok Sabha, with the Rajya Sabha session starting on the same day.

Election of Lok Sabha Speaker

In a significant development on Wednesday, Om Birla was re-elected as the Speaker of the Lok Sabha. Prime Minister Narendra Modi moved the motion in the House, and Birla emerged victorious against the Opposition’s candidate, Congress MP Kodikkunil Suresh, through a voice vote. This marks the second consecutive term for Birla as Speaker, reflecting the NDA’s continued dominance in the lower house.

Congratulatory Messages and Vision for the 18th Lok Sabha

Post-election, Speaker Birla received congratulations from key political figures, including Prime Minister Modi and Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, along with various leaders from both the NDA and the opposition. In his address, Birla emphasized the need for a new vision and resolve for the 18th Lok Sabha. He called for the House to become a center of creative thinking and new ideas, aiming to uphold high standards of parliamentary traditions and dignity. Birla underscored the importance of working towards the goal of a developed India, or Viksit Bharat.

Commemoration of Emergency Anniversary

Marking the 50th anniversary of the Emergency imposed on June 26, 1975, Speaker Birla praised the resilience and determination of those who opposed the Emergency and fought to protect India’s democracy. His remarks served as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding democratic principles and the rule of law.

Adjournment of Both Houses

After a day filled with significant addresses and discussions, both Houses of Parliament were adjourned for the day. The session highlighted crucial issues, set the tone for future legislative debates, and reinforced the commitment to democratic values and accountability.

As the 18th Lok Sabha embarks on its journey, the focus will remain on fostering innovative ideas, maintaining parliamentary decorum, and addressing the pressing concerns of the nation.