Shahnawaz Ahmad Ansari
Shahnawaz Ahmad Ansari, National Spokesperson, All India Pasmanda Muslim Mahaz (AIPMM)
In a nation where diversity is our strength, the struggle for social justice remains an ongoing battle. The recent landmark decision by the Supreme Court, allowing sub-classification within Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST), is a beacon of hope for millions who have long yearned for equitable opportunities. This judgment holds immense potential to address the deep-rooted inequities within these communities. It is a step in the right direction towards a more inclusive and equitable India.I applaud this ruling and emphasize the urgent need to extend its benefits to Muslim and Christian Dalits. Let us explore the constitutional nuances and societal implications of this transformative judgment.
The quest for equality
The Supreme Court’s recognition that Scheduled Castes are not a monolithic entity is a significant stride towards justice. By permitting sub-classification, the Court acknowledges the diverse challenges faced by different subgroups within SCs. This move does not infringe upon the hallowed principle of equality enshrined in Article 14 of our Constitution. Rather, it amplifies the spirit of affirmative action by tailoring it to the specific needs of marginalized communities.
Article 341(2) has long been a stumbling block, imposing religious restrictions on Dalits seeking reservations. The Court’s ruling opens a gateway to dismantling these barriers. It is time to recognize that faith should not be a determinant of social upliftment. Muslim and Christian Dalits, too, deserve equal access to educational institutions, jobs, and political representation.
Empowering the backward classes
The Court’s decision paves the way for states to sub-classify within SC and ST categories. This is a game-changer for more backward communities. We advocate for a similar approach within backward classes: Backward, More Backward, and Most Backward. Such nuanced categorization ensures that the benefits of reservations reach those who need them the most.
Consider the farmer’s son in a remote village, the daughter of a daily wage labourer, or the aspiring student from a marginalized community. Their dreams should not be stifled by rigid classifications. By allowing sub-classification, we empower these aspirants to break free from the shackles of historical disadvantage.
Extending reservation benefits to Muslim and Christian Dalits
I strongly advocate for extending reservation benefits to Muslim and Christian Dalits. The current religious restrictions under Article 341 are an anachronism that undermines the spirit of social justice enshrined in our Constitution. By excluding Dalits of certain religious backgrounds from reservations, we perpetuate inequalities that reservation policies aim to eliminate. It is imperative that the Supreme Court addresses this inconsistency and ensures that all Dalits, irrespective of their religion, are entitled to the same constitutional protections and benefits.
The Constitution guarantees equality and prohibits discrimination on the grounds of religion. Yet, the current framework of reservations is anchored in religious lines, excluding a significant portion of the marginalized population. It is imperative to remove these religious restrictions under Article 341 to ensure that the benefits of affirmative action reach all those who are constitutionally entitled to it.
The road to a truly inclusive India necessitates a comprehensive approach that goes beyond mere tokenism. We must strive to create a society where every individual, irrespective of caste, religion, or gender, has equal opportunities to thrive. The Supreme Court’s judgment is a step in the right direction, but much remains to be done.
A call for immediate action
The Court’s verdict is not a mere legal pronouncement; it is a clarion call for societal transformation. I urge that this policy shift should be accompanied by a comprehensive review and adjustment of current reservation frameworks to include all marginalised communities.
The government must engage in active dialogue with social groups and justice advocates to build a consensus on the best ways to achieve inclusive and equitable affirmative action.Let the wheels of progress turn, ensuring that the marginalized find their rightful place in educational institutions, government jobs, and legislative bodies.
To our fellow citizens, we say: Stand with us. Justice-loving souls, regardless of caste or creed, must rally behind this cause. Let us engage in dialogue, dispelling myths and prejudices. Together, we can build an India where every child, regardless of their background, can dream of a brighter future.
The path forward
The Supreme Court’s decision marks a significant step forward in the ongoing struggle for social justice in India. It highlights the need for continuous reassessment of our policies to ensure they meet the evolving needs of our society. For the Pasmanda Muslim community, this ruling offers a beacon of hope that long-standing injustices can be addressed through thoughtful and inclusive legal frameworks.
We standcommitted to the fight for social justice and the constitutional rights of all backward communities. We believe that lifting religious restrictions on reservations is not just a legal necessity but a moral imperative that will strengthen the fabric of India’s democracy.
~~~
Shahnawaz Ahmad Ansari is the National Spokesperson& Media-In-Charge of All India Pasmanda Muslim Mahaz (AIPMM). https://aipmm.org.in/
He is a thinker, accomplished author, journalist, and editor with over two decades of experience. A published poet, his reflective and philosophical poems can be found at https://mypoeticside.com/show-poem-170364. He crafts insightful editorials, eloquently expressing his keen observations of socio-economic and political issues through his blog https://candidqalam.home.blog/. He is also a critical political, socio-economic and literary commentator.
