Chandrashekhar Azad, the MP from Nagina in Uttar Pradesh, has demanded the complete abolition of the creamy layer system within OBC reservations. He stated that reservations for the backward classes were provided under the spirit of social justice in the Constitution.
Lucknow: Chandrashekhar Azad, the Member of Parliament from the Nagina Lok Sabha seat in Uttar Pradesh, has once again posed a political challenge to the central government. He has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi demanding the removal of the creamy layer provision applicable to Other Backward Class (OBC) reservations and an increase in the income limit to ₹20 lakh per annum.
Chandrashekhar Azad contends that the creamy layer system is against the spirit of social justice enshrined in the Constitution and deprives a large section of the backward classes of their rights.
Chandrashekhar Azad Questions the Creamy Layer System
In his letter, Chandrashekhar Azad wrote, "In accordance with the spirit of social justice provided by the Constitution, reservations have been granted to the Other Backward Classes. However, the currently implemented creamy layer system is depriving a significant segment of OBC society of their constitutional rights. These provisions appear to be contrary to the fundamental spirit of social justice and are unconstitutional."
He further urged the government to completely abolish the creamy layer system from OBC reservations by introducing a bill in Parliament. Chandrashekhar stated that until this system is abolished, the income limit should be immediately raised to ₹20 lakh per annum to extend benefits to the maximum number of needy families.
A Historic Step Towards Social Justice
The Nagina MP further stated in his letter, "Prime Minister, this step will not only be just for the OBC community but will also prove to be a historic initiative towards social justice and equality." He appealed to the government to seriously consider his demands and take concrete steps soon. Chandrashekhar clarified that this issue is not merely political but a matter of safeguarding the rights enshrined in the Constitution.
Previously, Anupriya Patel, the national president of Apna Dal (S) and a Union Minister, had also demanded an increase in the creamy layer income limit and the abolition of the system. With Chandrashekhar Azad's support, this issue has now gained further strength. Political analysts believe that this issue could become a challenge for the BJP in the upcoming elections, especially in regions with a substantial OBC population.
The central government is also considering standardizing the creamy layer income limit for OBC reservations. Under the proposed plan, a uniform income limit for OBCs is being discussed for implementation across government departments, public sector undertakings, universities, and private institutions. This would clarify who falls into this category and who is excluded.
