Supreme Court Introduces Reservation Policy for Staff Appointments and Promotions

Historically, the Supreme Court of India had not implemented a reservation policy for its own staff, even though such policies existed in other government sectors. The Court's unique institutional autonomy and past legal debates over reservation in promotions may have contributed to the delay in adopting formal quotas within its administrative framework.

Most government institutions in India have long implemented reservations for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs), often amounting to around 50% combined, in line with Supreme Court-imposed ceilings. The Supreme Court’s new policy aligns with these norms but is notable as it marks the judiciary formally adopting such measures for its own staff for the first time.

While reservations are constitutionally permitted, their extension—especially in promotions—has faced legal scrutiny. The Supreme Court has previously held that reservations in promotions must be justified with data on backwardness and inadequate representation, and must not compromise administrative efficiency. Legal challenges could arise if these criteria are not met in the new policy’s implementation.

The policy will apply to various administrative positions in the Supreme Court, including registrars, senior personal assistants, and junior court assistants. This covers both direct recruitment and promotions, broadening the scope of affirmative action within the institution’s staffing.[Summary]