A major protest over India reservation system took place at Jantar Mantar, with demonstrators demanding changes in the existing quota policies. The protesters called for government benefits to be based more on economic condition rather than caste.
One of the main demands was the introduction of a creamy layer rule for reservation benefits. Protesters argued that financially stronger sections should not continue receiving the same benefits meant for people who are more disadvantaged.
The demonstrators also demanded the repeal of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and changes in policies related to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes. These demands have added a fresh debate around how reservation benefits should be provided in India.
The protest was organised under the Reservation Reform Andolan, led by NEET aspirant Harsh Dubey. Groups including General Sena, Chanakya Sena and Karni Sena, along with social media influencer Ajeet Bharti, were also reported to have joined the demonstration.
The issue has also received political attention. Union Minister of State for Social Justice Ramdas Athawale defended reservation, saying it is a constitutional right and that the system benefits several groups that need support.The latest protest has once again brought India reservation policy into the national debate, with different groups demanding changes while others support the existing system.
