The Calcutta High Court has cancelled all OBC certificates issued by the West Bengal government since 2010, after hearing a public interest litigation challenging the state's Backward Classes Act. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has stated that she will not accept the order and that OBC reservation will continue in the state. While this decision affects over five lakh people, those currently in service or who have already benefited from OBC reservation will not be impacted. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has welcomed the court's decision, criticizing the state government for giving OBC reservation to 118 Muslim communities without proper process.
Calcutta High Court Scraps West Bengal OBC Certificates: A Background and FAQs
Background
The Calcutta High Court recently struck down all Other Backward Classes (OBC) certificates issued by the West Bengal government since 2010. The decision came in response to a public interest litigation (PIL) challenging the constitutional validity of the state's Backward Classes Act, 2010.
Key Points
Top 5 FAQs
1. Why did the Calcutta High Court scrap the OBC certificates?
The court held that the West Bengal government failed to follow the Central List of OBCs in issuing the certificates and included 118 Muslim communities without proper process.
2. How many people are affected by the decision?
Over five lakh people who have received OBC certificates since 2010 are affected.
3. Will the decision affect those currently in service or who have benefited from OBC reservation?
No, those currently in service or who have already benefited from OBC reservation will not be impacted.
4. What is the West Bengal government's response to the decision?
The West Bengal government has stated that it will not accept the order and will continue to provide OBC reservation.
5. What is the Central government's view on the decision?
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has welcomed the court's decision, criticizing the West Bengal government for giving OBC reservation to 118 Muslim communities without proper process.
Conclusion
The Calcutta High Court's decision to scrap OBC certificates issued by the West Bengal government has raised concerns and triggered political debate. The West Bengal government's response and the Central government's support for the court's order will likely lead to further legal challenges and policy revisions in the future.
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