Why Does the General Category Cry Against Reservations Despite Access to More Vacancy Posts?

In recent discussions, the general category candidates have voiced their dissatisfaction regarding reservations, especially when a significant number of seats in prestigious institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) are reserved. This article explores the reasons behind their cries for equality and fairness, and examines the implications of a system that prioritizes historically marginalized communities.

The Current Scenario in IITs

It is a common observation that despite the large number of seats reserved for various categories, the general category still manages to secure a considerable number of seats. According to the data, more than 60% of the IIT seats are reserved, which means a significant proportion of these seats do not go to the reserved categories. This prompts one to wonder: why would the general category not feel satisfied with more seats being available to them?

Consider a scenario where a hardworking candidate from the general category sees someone with half their marks securing a seat, just because their ancestors were treated unfairly in the past. This would indeed evoke feelings of injustice and disparity. This inherent inequality in the current reservation system is a fundamental issue that needs to be addressed to ensure fair opportunities for all.

The Unfairness Within the Reservation System

Let's delve deeper into the reservation system to understand the underlying issues. The primary argument against reservations is that it is a counter-meritocratic system. Reserved categories often benefit from securing seats even with lower marks, reduced qualifying ages, and higher cutoffs compared to general category candidates. This creates a sense of unfairness among the general category candidates, who may feel their hard work is being undervalued.

The reservation system is primarily designed to assist specific sections of society that were historically and systematically marginalized. However, the current implementation of reservations is often criticized for its inefficiency in bridging the gap between these sections and the general population. For instance, if a section is given reservations for 12.5% of seats, but only a fraction of these seats are filled, it leaves the majority of reserved candidates without any advantage compared to the general category candidates.

Furthermore, the reservation system is not solely based on merit but also on a quota system. This means that even if a candidate from the reserved category secures a better score, they still get the reserved seat instead of an open one. This has led to a situation where the open seats are often filled by candidates with lower marks, leading to further dissatisfaction among the general category candidates.

The Inequality and Its Consequences

The prevalence of reservations in various fields, such as governance and judiciary, also raises questions about meritocracy. For example, a small minority of Brahmins (less than 5% of India's population) occupy a majority of top government jobs, high court judgeships, and cabinet positions in the Narendra Modi cabinet. This concentration of power in a few hands, while a reserved category operates at a significant advantage, raises concerns about balance and fairness.

The argument that reservations should be cancelled because they are benefiting others is flawed. The purpose of reservations is to level the playing field for historically disadvantaged groups, not to create a scenario where everyone benefits equally. The current reservations are calculated based on population statistics, not on the sole merit of the candidates. This often leads to an irrational and inefficient distribution of seats, leaving many deserving candidates behind.

Proposed Solutions and Reforms

One possible solution to address these issues is to reform the reservation system, making it more merit-based and less exploitative. This could involve implementing a prorata system where seats are filled based on a fair and transparent merit-based evaluation. Another suggestion is to allow every caste or community to manage its affairs through a caste-based board system, allowing for more localized and immediate solutions that cater to the specific needs of each community.

It is important to recognize that the current system of reservations is not only about social justice but also about merit. The general category candidates and reserved category candidates should work towards a system that is fair, efficient, and promotes true meritocracy. The article calls for a re-evaluation of the reservation system to ensure that it serves its intended purpose and does not become a source of further inequality and dissatisfaction.