Delhi: In a landmark development, the Supreme Court of India has announced the introduction of reservations for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in its staff appointments for the first time. This step follows the recent decision to extend reservation benefits to candidates belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST), marking a significant stride towards inclusivity and social justice within the highest judicial institution of the country.
The inclusion of OBC reservations, along with provisions for the physically challenged, ex-servicemen, and dependents of freedom fighters, has been formalized through an amendment to the Supreme Court Officers and Servants (Conditions of Service and Conduct) Rules, 1961. According to a notification issued on July 3, 2025, Rule 4A has been substituted by the Chief Justice of India, exercising powers under clause (2) of Article 146 of the Constitution.
The amended Rule 4A states that reservation in direct recruitment to various posts, as specified in the Schedule, will now be extended to SC, ST, OBC, physically challenged candidates, ex-servicemen, and dependents of freedom fighters. The policy will follow rules and orders issued by the Government of India, ensuring alignment with existing reservation frameworks for posts carrying equivalent pay scales.
