In first, Supreme Court introduces quotas for its staff
What's the story
In a first, the Supreme Court of India has introduced a reservation policy for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) in its staff recruitment and promotion. The decision was announced through an internal circular on June 24, 2025. This is the first time such a policy has been implemented at India's apex judicial institution. The Model Reservation Roster and Register came into effect on June 23, 2025.
Quota details
15% quota for SC, 7.5% for ST employees
The new reservation policy provides a 15% quota for SC employees and a 7.5% quota for ST employees in direct appointments and promotions. The roles covered under this policy include registrars, senior personal assistants, assistant librarians, junior court assistants, and chamber attendants. In case of any errors in the roster, staff members can raise objections directly to the Registrar (Recruitment).
Leadership impact
Initiative toward increasing diversity, correcting historical imbalances
The reservation policy was launched during the tenure of Chief Justice of India BR Gavai, who is only the second SC community member to hold the position. "All government institutions and many high courts already have provisions for reservation for SCs and STs. So, why should the Supreme Court be an exception?" "The Supreme Court has delivered several landmark judgments on affirmative action, and as an institution...Our actions must reflect our principles," CJI Gavai told HT.