What are Your Views on the Removal of Caste-Based Reservation?

There are

some questions that, most of the time, I avoid discussing just because I know that every conversation will inevitably lead to

inevitable conclusions. One such topic is caste-based reservation. We live in a secular nation, yet our government discriminates citizens based on their castes through caste-based reservation. This system was introduced to uplift backward classes, but its effectiveness and relevance in today's society are now under scrutiny.

Historical Context and Initial Necessity

Reservation was established to break down the barriers faced by Dalits and other socially marginalized communities. At its inception, it was necessary to overcome deep-seated prejudices. Over time, this system brought about significant changes in areas such as education and employment. However, in the current scenario, the landscape has changed, and the very principles that once justified reservation no longer hold true.

Current Challenges and Controversies

Beyond the initial intention of upliftment, caste-based reservation has brought about several negative consequences. For instance, it often leads to a sense of discrimination among those in the general category. This discord can stir tensions based on caste, creed, and other divisive factors.

A recent image from Google highlighted these frustrations, demonstrating the burden that reservation places on both the privileged and the underprivileged. While reservation is enshrined in the Indian Constitution, its removal would require significant constitutional amendments—safeguarding the interests of a large population is no small feat.

It is estimated that the population of Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC) constitutes about 75% of India. On the other hand, the upper castes, despite being a small proportion of the population, have historically dominated political and economic power. Therefore, abolishing such a system would be immensely challenging.

Proposed Solutions: Income-Based Reservation

To address these concerns, an alternative approach to reservation based on income could be more effective. Class-based reservations could better cater to the genuinely underprivileged, ensuring that resources are allocated where they are most needed. By doing so, we can avoid the divisive impact of caste while still promoting social equity.

Advancing Social Change: A Call to Youth Action

As a young Indian, I believe in the power of unity and collective action. If the community of upper castes comes together to advocate for a more equitable system, we can achieve a caste-free society. Embracing this change is not about succumbing to pessimism; rather, it is an optimistic stance.

I am not entirely against the concept of reservation, as there are still many underprivileged individuals who need support. The key, however, is to refine the system so that it truly serves those who are in need, irrespective of their caste background.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

As a generation of empowered youth, our ability to bring about societal change is immense. If we unite and raise our voices, we can drive meaningful reform. It is crucial that we advocate for a respectful and inclusive society while resisting the abuse and shaming of any community. Every individual's opinion matters, and together we can create a more equitable future for all.