Proposing to uplift the most disadvantaged groups among the Dalit community, a group of academicians and experts have put forward a report proposing sub-categorisation of SC reservations, which includes giving the Mala and Madiga sub-castes lower priority in the distribution of resources.
On December 6, Professors K Laxminarayana and KY Ratnam from the University of Hyderabad, Professor Kumaraswamy from Palamuru University, along with MLC Goreti Venkanna, Dr. Gopinath, and Dr. Patta Venkateshwarlu, presented the report titled Suggestions for Scientific Sub-Categorisation of SC Reservations in Telangana State to Justice Shameem Akhtar, chairman of the one-man commission for SC sub-categorisation. The report aims to create a more equitable reservation system that prioritises the most disadvantaged sections within the SC community, while addressing the historical inequities between the Mala and Madiga sub-castes.
The submitted recommendations propose two models for sub-categorisation. The first model prioritises sub-castes that have received little to no benefits from welfare schemes, advocating that they should be given precedence based on their degree of backwardness. Sub-castes such as Mala, Madiga, and their allied groups, which have historically benefited more, should receive lower priority. The authors also stressed the importance of implementing special programs to uplift the most disadvantaged sub-castes.
The second model focuses on ranking backwardness within sub-castes. It suggests that the most backward sections within the Madiga sub-caste should be given the highest priority, followed by the most backward groups within the Mala sub-caste. Sub-castes identified as highly benefited, such as advanced sections of Madiga and Mala groups, should be placed at the third and fourth levels of priority, respectively. The authors emphasised that sub-caste populations should be taken into account when allocating reservation roster points, and categorisation should be implemented at district, zonal, and state levels to address regional disparities effectively.
The recommendations also highlight the need to address discrimination in the implementation of reservation policies. The authors called for legal provisions that would allow sub-castes to challenge discriminatory laws or inadequate distribution mechanisms in court. They urged the government to conduct a scientific and unbiased survey to collect authentic data on the socio-economic conditions, levels of backwardness, and assets of various sub-castes to ensure an evidence-based approach to sub-categorisation.
Further, the submission underlined the need to strengthen public education systems to provide Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Backward Classes with quality education and employment opportunities. The recommendations advocate for creating a welfare framework that prioritises the most underprivileged groups and ensures inclusivity across all sub-castes.
The document emphasises the importance of scientific sub-categorisation to ensure equitable distribution of resources and opportunities among the most marginalised communities. The authors have called for a balanced and transparent approach that addresses the disparities within the Dalit community while fostering social justice.