How long will the reservation system (quota) continue in India?

The continuation and duration of the reservation system in India are subjects of ongoing debate and judicial scrutiny. Here are some key points:

Judicial Perspectives

• The Supreme Court of India has emphasized that the quota system should not continue indefinitely. In a recent ruling, the court suggested that a time limit should be fixed for the reservation system to pave the way for a casteless and classless society1.
• The court has also questioned how many generations the reservations would continue, highlighting the need to revisit the system after 75 years of India's independence13.

Historical Context

• The reservation system was initially introduced for a period of 10 years but has been extended repeatedly. The framers of the Indian Constitution envisioned that the policy of reservation would have a limited time span, but it has continued beyond the initial 50 years mark4.

Future Directions

• There is a consensus that the reservation system needs periodic reviews and adjustments to ensure it remains relevant and effective. Recommendations include regularly updating the criteria for reservations to reflect current socio-economic realities and ensuring that benefits reach the most deserving individuals5.

In summary, while there is no definitive timeline set for the end of the reservation system, there is a growing consensus that it should not be perpetual and that periodic reviews and adjustments are necessary to ensure its continued relevance and effectiveness.