This refers to the editorial, “Unhealthy reservations” (August 12). It is a fact that nothing is more regressive for India than its policy of reservations. Often, an individual belonging to backward class supercedes his privileged counterpart in the sphere of education or employment, despite having an inferior track record. In the process, not only does the criterion of eligibility gets relegated in the background, but the pernicious practice also gives rise to a class of ‘neo-Brahmins’. Social justice and equality cannot be achieved through such policies. Rather it gives rise to resentment and ill-feeling.
Thanks to the easier path of entry to higher education or service, which remains the only contribution of reservations — more and more groups are demanding the privilege of quotas. Moreover, it is disgracing to note how dominant groups of much-hyped developed States are launching violent agitations to get enrolled as underprivileged. Actually, irrespective of caste affiliations, people deprived of proper education due to financial constraints should be given free access to schools, colleges and study materials. But this is where aid should end. Admission to higher education and employment should be based solely on merit viz percentages scored in relevant examinations, ranking in merit list or performance in interviews.