Increase in Reservation Quota

(a) As per Census, 2001, the proportion of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in the country`s population is 16.2% and 8.2% respectively. 

(b) to (e) As per the information provided by the Department of Personnel and Training, the Hon`ble Supreme Court in the matter of Indra Sawhney Vs. Union of India observed that it is not possible to accept the theory of proportionate representation, though the proportion of population of Backward Classes to the total population would certainly be relevant and held that the power conferred by clause (4) of article 16 should be exercised in a fair manner and within reasonable limits so that reservation does not exceed 50%. 

The above statement was submitted by MoSJE in reply of undermentioned Lok Sabha Question:-

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT

LOK SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO 2682

ANSWERED ON   10.12.2012

INCREASE IN RESERVATION QUOTA

2682 . Shri ASHOK KUMAR RAWAT

P.C. GADDIGOUDAR

Will the Minister of SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Government has any realistic data regarding the proportion of SC/ST in the total population of the country; 

(b) whether the Government has any proposal to make any amendment in reservations for such categories in view of the increase in inclusion of castes/sub-castes in the list of SC/ST every year;

(c) if so, the details thereof as on date; 

(d) whether the Government has received any representation to increase the quota of reservation; and 

(e) the action taken/proposed to be taken by the Government in this regard?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT (SHRI P. BALRAM NAIK)