6.4.4.2 Controversy related to reservation for Economically Weaker Sections

As per the amendment, up to 10% of seats may be reserved for such sections for admission in educational institutions. Such reservation will not apply to minority educational institutions. The reservation of up to 10% for the EWS will be in addition to the existing reservation cap of 50% reservation for SC, ST and OBCs. The central government will notify the “economically weaker sections” of citizens on the basis of family income and other indicators of economic disadvantage.

For the very first time, economic class is

constitutionally recognized as vulnerable section & would form the basis of affirmative action programme. It is a departure from traditional centrality of caste in deciding affirmative action.