Current Affairs - Bills and Acts - Discussion

The Supreme Court emphasised Articles 14 and 16 of the Constitution while questioning the practice of forcing meritorious Persons with Disabilities (PwD) to remain in reserved seats even when they qualify in the unreserved/general category. Article 14 guarantees equality before the law, while Article 16 ensures equal opportunity in matters of public employment. Denial of upward mobility to PwD candidates was termed “hostile discrimination,” as it unfairly restricts their opportunities compared to SC/ST/OBC candidates who enjoy such mobility. By invoking these provisions, the Court reinforced that reservation is about inclusion and enabling equality, not charity, and must ensure fairness, dignity, and true empowerment for PwDs.