The Karnataka High Court is scheduled to hear a crucial petition today challenging the state government's decision on the sub-categorisation and internal reservation within the Scheduled Castes (SC) community. The petition was filed by the Banjara (Lambani), Bhovi, Korama, and Koracha communities, who have expressed strong opposition to the new policy.

Key Details of the Case

The Challenge: The communities are challenging the Karnataka Cabinet's resolution of August 19, 2025, regarding the categorisation of the state's 101 Scheduled Castes and the allocation of internal reservation.

Court Proceedings: The petition will be heard by a single-judge bench of Justice Suraj Govindaraj.

Basis of Objection: The petitioners have alleged that the classification system, which is based on the Justice H. Nagamohan Das Commission report, is unjust in the distribution of internal reservation benefits, leading to inequality among SC sub-groups. Autobiography of A Yogi Paperback – Big Book, 13 September 2024

Implications and Context

This matter is considered significant as it addresses the core issue of social justice, equality, and the equitable distribution of opportunities among various SC sub-groups in Karnataka.

The outcome of today's hearing is expected to have far-reaching effects on the implementation of the internal reservation policy across education, employment, and other sectors in the state. Though the government has issued orders for internal reservation, the matter has reportedly caused complications in the issuance of caste certificates.

The communities and the state government are awaiting the High Court's directions, which will shape the ongoing debate on social justice within the SC category. Also Read: Heavy Rain Alert for Karnataka: Yellow Alert Declared in Seven Districts!