Context:

 Recently, the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly has approved the sub-classification of Scheduled Castes (SCs), a move aimed at ensuring a more equitable distribution of benefits among the various sub-groups within the SC community.

Key Points of the Sub-Classification: 

The new sub-categorisation will be implemented with a focus on fair distribution based on data from the 2011 Census. The state government has devised a system that categorizes SCs into three distinct groups, each with different levels of reservation to address the varying socio-economic conditions within the community.

1.   Group 1: Most Backward Sub-Castes
This group includes the Relli sub-group, which comprises 12 castes making up approximately 2.25% of the total SC population in Andhra Pradesh. They will be allocated 1% reservation in government jobs.

2.   Group 2: Backward Sub-Castes
The Madiga sub-group includes 18 castes, representing 41.56% of the SC population. This group will receive 6.5% reservation.

3.   Group 3: Comparatively Less Backward Sub-Castes
The Mala sub-group, consisting of 29 castes, makes up the largest portion, about 53.97% of the total SC population. They will be granted 7.5% reservation.

The new sub-classification aims to ensure a fair and just distribution of government benefits across the SC sub-groups. The system will take effect in 2026 and be applied at the district level.

Background and Legal Journey

The demand for sub-categorisation of SCs has been a long-standing issue in Andhra Pradesh. Activist Manda Krishna Madiga has been at the forefront of the 'Madiga Dandora' movement, advocating for the sub-categorisation for years.

The idea was first recommended by the Justice Ramachandra Rao Commission in 1996, which recommended the division of SCs into different categories to ensure that the benefits reached the most deserving sub-castes.

The Andhra Pradesh government first implemented this sub-categorisation recommendation in 1997, but the move faced legal challenges. In 2004, the Supreme Court of India ruled that only Parliament had the authority to decide on such classifications.

Despite the legal hurdles, the Supreme Court finally upheld the sub-categorisation of SCs in August 2023, clearing the way for the state’s implementation of this policy.

Arguments for sub-classification

Sub-classification of SCs ensures equitable distribution of reservations, prioritizing the most marginalized and improving governance. However, critics argue it may weaken unity, dilute historical justice, and face data limitations. While legally viable under Articles 341 and 246, concerns persist about caste discrimination, political misuse, and lack of credible census data.

Conclusion

The sub-classification of Scheduled Castes in Andhra Pradesh marks a significant step towards achieving greater social equity and justice for the SC community. By addressing the disparities within the SC sub-groups, this initiative aims to ensure that benefits and opportunities are equitably distributed, giving a voice to historically marginalized communities. The implementation of this decision in 2026 will be a critical moment for the state, as it works toward more inclusive governance and social justice.