# Centre Opposes Income-Based Sub-Quota Within SC, ST and OBC Reservations

2026-08-07T01:40:22+00:00 | Governance | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 1 independent outlet

The Union government has urged the Supreme Court to reject petitions seeking income-based preferences or sub-quotas within SC, ST, OBC and EWS reservations. In its affidavit, the Centre said reservation for SCs and STs rests on historical and social disadvantage, not income alone. It also opposed applying the creamy layer principle to SCs and STs, saying court precedent limits it to OBCs. The government argued that Parliament, not the courts, can alter the notified SC and ST lists under Articles 341 and 342. The petitions seek priority for economically weaker people within reserved categories. The Centre said any such policy requires a broad empirical study of socio-economic data and cannot be ordered through a writ under Article 32. The batch is likely to be heard on August 18.

## Coverage

- hindustantimes.com <https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/govt-opposes-plea-in-supreme-court-on-income-based-quota-for-sc-st-and-obcs-101786043372354.html>
- timesnownews.com <https://www.timesnownews.com/india/creamy-layer-principle-not-applicable-to-quotas-for-scheduled-castes-scheduled-tribes-centre-affidavit-to-supreme-court-article-155325585>

Tags: creamy layer, reservation policy, SC ST OBC, Supreme Court, Union government
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