The Reservation System: A Barrier to True Meritocracy or a Necessity for Social Justice?

The Challenge of the Reservation System: A Barrier to True Meritocracy or a Necessity for Social Justice?

Why hasn't the reservation system been changed yet? The answer, as it often is in politics, lies deep within the intricate dance of vote bank politics. Extending reservation policies ensures that the benefits flow to those based on caste lines, often at the expense of merit. Politicians and their intermediaries are seen as siphoning these benefits, leading to a system that, far from uplifting, fosters dependency and resentment.

Political Manipulation and the Reservation System

The reservation system introduces a certain section of society to a set of special rights that may or may not be deserved. This system has transformed into a potent political tool, benefiting those who have little genuine need. Reservation policies were initially aimed at helping deprived sections of society, but today they serve as a means to obtain advantages without the necessary effort. It is disheartening to see people who earn significant sums of money still receiving benefits based solely on their caste.

If the government truly aims to help those who genuinely require support, it should focus on:

Helping the needy regardless of their books and reducing tuition fees for those in assistance to individuals who need tangible support, such as bicycles or motorcycles, rather than free seats in those who need vehicles, irrespective of their caste, instead of providing them to those with luxury vehicles parked in their garages.

These changes would empower individuals based on their needs rather than their caste, potentially fostering true development in the nation. It is concerning that many talented and educated professionals, including scientists, engineers, doctors, and professors, opt to work abroad for better respect and recognition. Their talents are undervalued in the current system, with categories being the foremost criterion for selection.

The Reservation System for Higher Castes

Regardless of one's economic background, the reservation system poses a significant struggle for individuals born into higher castes. Talent and qualification matter less when the "biggest piece of the pie" is reserved for those based on their "broken arm grandfather." This system disadvantages hardworking and qualified individuals who, despite their efforts, cannot secure positions in government jobs or private companies willing to hire them.

For instance, consider a man named Riyaz, a Muslim from Mumbai who drives an auto rickshaw. He has paid the price of being from a middle-class family and, unfortunately, lost control of his left leg. Despite qualifying for the handicapped quota and making multiple applications for government jobs, his requests have fallen on deaf ears. He turned to auto driving and continues to work hard despite the odds against him.

Political organizations often exploit the reservation system for their own benefits and to cater to their existing vote banks. It is time to recognize that hatred and religious biases are the real culprits impeding social progress. Everyone from a middle-class family deserves an equal opportunity to work and survive, irrespective of their religion. Each one of us must take responsibility for fostering an environment of equality and talent over religious bias.

A Call to Action

Dr. Ambedkar sought reservation as a temporary measure, urging its end after a few years. However, political organizations continue to mislead and manipulate people with these policies. It is imperative to stop being fooled and to prioritize merit and talent for the betterment of society. The path forward is clear; let us strive for equality and justice for all.