GK Question

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In State of Punjab v. Davinder Singh (January 2024), the Supreme Court upheld the power of States to create sub-classifications within SC reservation. This judgment overruled which earlier precedent?

  1. Indra Sawhney case (1992)
  2. E.V. Chinnaiah case (2004)
  3. M. Nagaraj case (2006)
  4. Jarnail Singh case (2018)

Answer: E.V. Chinnaiah case (2004)

Davinder Singh case (2024): 7-judge Constitution Bench (6:1) overruled E.V. Chinnaiah (2004) which held States cannot sub-classify SCs as it would violate Article 14. New holding: (a) States can create sub-classifications within SC/ST reservations to ensure equitable distribution among more/less backward communities, (b) Classification must be based on quantifiable data showing backwardness, (c) Does not violate Article 14 if rational and based on intelligible differentia. Enables States to address intra-group inequalities; significant for affirmative action policy evolution.

Topic Reservation Policy - Recent Judicial Developments
Exam Relevance Reservation policy evolution question critical for UPSC Mains and advanced SSC exams
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