Nagamohan Das, a prominent social activist and policy expert, has reiterated that reservation policies in India are not merely temporary measures but essential tools to address persistent socio-economic inequalities. Speaking at a recent seminar in Bengaluru, Das emphasized that marginalized communities continue to face systemic barriers in education, employment, and social mobility. According to him, reservation ensures that historically disadvantaged groups have access to opportunities that might otherwise remain out of reach, helping to bridge centuries-old disparities and create a more equitable society.
Das argued that the debate over reservation often overlooks the structural disadvantages that persist despite constitutional guarantees. He pointed out that caste-based and socio-economic inequalities continue to shape access to quality education, healthcare, and employment. In his address, he highlighted that affirmative action policies are crucial not just for representation but for leveling the playing field. Without such measures, marginalized communities risk being further excluded from the corridors of power and influence in both government and private sectors.
Nagamohan Das emphasized that reservation is ultimately a tool for creating a level playing field, enabling marginalized communities to overcome historical disadvantages. By granting access to education and employment, it provides opportunities for social mobility, allowing individuals to break the cycles of poverty and exclusion that have persisted for generations. Without such measures, systemic inequality would continue to replicate itself across generations.
He also highlighted that reservation strengthens democracy by ensuring diverse representation in institutions of governance, education, and the workforce. When historically marginalized voices are included in decision-making, policies are more likely to address the needs of all sections of society. This inclusivity not only improves governance but also fosters trust in democratic institutions among communities that have historically been excluded.
Das cautioned that reservation must be continually monitored and refined to prevent misuse while ensuring maximum benefit to those who truly need it. He suggested that periodic review mechanisms, transparent criteria, and complementary support programs like mentoring and financial aid are essential. Such measures ensure that reservation remains a credible, fair, and effective tool for achieving social justice.
Ultimately, Nagamohan Das stressed that the persistence of inequality demands the continuation of affirmative action policies. Reservation is not merely a privilege; it is a corrective mechanism designed to safeguard justice, promote social equity, and empower marginalized communities. As long as social disparities exist, reservation will remain a vital instrument in India’s pursuit of a fair and inclusive society.
Citing data and case studies, Das stressed that reservation has historically facilitated upward mobility for several disadvantaged groups, but gaps remain. He emphasized that the system needs to evolve alongside social progress, ensuring that benefits reach the most deserving individuals. Das also advocated for continuous monitoring and assessment of reservation policies, suggesting reforms to prevent misuse while retaining their core purpose of empowerment. His remarks underscore the ongoing relevance of affirmative action in addressing structural inequities that continue to persist across Indian society.
Nagamohan Das pointed out that despite decades of affirmative action, marginalized communities in India continue to face structural hurdles. Educational attainment remains uneven, with students from Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes often attending under-resourced schools in rural and semi-urban areas. This disparity affects their ability to compete in higher education and professional exams, making reservation crucial for enabling equal opportunities at advanced stages of learning.
He also highlighted the persistence of social stigma, which continues to affect employment prospects even when merit and qualifications are equal. Discrimination in hiring, workplace harassment, and lack of mentorship are barriers that reservation policies help to mitigate. Das argued that without these measures, talented individuals from marginalized backgrounds may be systematically excluded from positions of influence, reinforcing cycles of social and economic disadvantage.
In the political sphere, Das emphasized that reservation ensures representation of historically oppressed communities in legislative bodies. Adequate representation enables these groups to influence policy decisions that directly affect their lives. He cited examples from local governance, state assemblies, and Parliament where reservation has allowed communities to voice concerns that might otherwise remain ignored, promoting a more inclusive democracy.
Das stressed that the benefits of reservation extend beyond immediate access to education and jobs. They foster a sense of dignity, self-worth, and social recognition among marginalized groups. By ensuring participation in mainstream society, reservation policies help integrate communities that might otherwise remain socially isolated, thereby promoting cohesion and reducing social tensions.
The activist also addressed arguments that reservation should be phased out as society becomes more equitable. He countered that while progress has been made, inequality remains deeply entrenched, especially in rural and semi-urban areas. Without reservation, systemic barriers in access to education, employment, and social networks would continue to prevent disadvantaged communities from achieving parity.
Economic upliftment alone, Das argued, is insufficient to achieve social justice. He emphasized that caste-based discrimination and entrenched social hierarchies operate independently of income levels. Therefore, reservation is necessary not only for financial inclusion but also for dismantling social prejudices that persist even when marginalized individuals achieve economic stability.
Das also underscored the importance of periodic assessment and reform of reservation policies. He suggested that while the system is essential, it must evolve to address contemporary challenges, such as ensuring transparency, reducing misuse, and targeting benefits toward the most disadvantaged within reserved categories. Continuous evaluation ensures that reservation remains effective and credible.
He highlighted the role of higher education institutions in amplifying the impact of reservation. By admitting students from underrepresented communities, colleges and universities not only provide academic opportunities but also promote cross-cultural interactions. Such diversity enriches learning environments, fosters empathy, and prepares all students to engage in a more equitable society.
In employment, reservation in government services ensures that marginalized communities can participate in policymaking, administration, and public service delivery. Das noted that such inclusion improves governance, as representatives from diverse backgrounds bring unique perspectives and insights into addressing local and social issues. It also reduces the concentration of power among dominant groups.
Das addressed critics who argue that reservation promotes dependency. He contended that reservation is a temporary corrective measure, not a permanent crutch. By facilitating education and employment, it empowers individuals to compete on equal footing and eventually reduce reliance on affirmative action, leading to genuine meritocracy over time.
Social movements, according to Das, have consistently shown the need for reservation. Historical struggles by marginalized communities for education, representation, and recognition demonstrate that systemic barriers cannot be eliminated solely through voluntary social reform. Legal and policy interventions like reservation are therefore indispensable tools for achieving justice and equality.
He emphasized that reservation also plays a critical role in combating gender disparities within marginalized communities. By ensuring that women from Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes have access to education and employment, reservation promotes both caste and gender equity. Empowered women contribute significantly to the social and economic development of their communities.
The activist highlighted that reservation policies must be accompanied by support systems such as scholarships, mentoring, and skill development programs. Simply reserving seats or positions is insufficient; holistic measures are required to ensure that beneficiaries can fully utilize the opportunities provided, achieve personal growth, and contribute meaningfully to society.
Historical Context of Reservation
India’s reservation system was introduced to address centuries of social discrimination, particularly against Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes. Nagamohan Das reminded audiences that these measures were envisioned as temporary but have remained essential due to slow social progress. He emphasized that inequality is deeply rooted and cannot be dismantled overnight, making reservation a necessary mechanism for promoting inclusion.
Das further noted that while economic criteria have been suggested as alternatives, caste-based reservations remain critical because social marginalization and historical oppression extend beyond mere financial disadvantage. He argued that policies must account for social, educational, and cultural barriers to ensure meaningful access to opportunities.
Societal Implications
The activist stressed that equitable representation is not only a matter of fairness but also strengthens governance and societal cohesion. By enabling marginalized communities to participate fully in public life, reservation policies promote diversity in decision-making processes. Das asserted that without such mechanisms, India risks perpetuating cycles of exclusion and social stagnation, which can undermine democratic principles.
He also highlighted that education and employment through are vital pathways for empowering marginalized groups to challenge systemic inequities. When underrepresented communities gain access to higher education and secure jobs, they contribute to social transformation, setting examples for future generations and gradually reducing disparities over time.
Finally, Nagamohan Das concluded that is not just a policy tool but a moral imperative. As long as structural inequality, social exclusion, and historical discrimination persist, remains necessary to protect the rights, dignity, and potential of marginalized communities. It is a measure that safeguards justice, promotes inclusion, and strengthens the social fabric of India.
Das concluded by urging society to view not as a temporary concession but as a necessary pillar for building an equitable nation. He emphasized that dismantling barriers requires both policy measures and social awareness, with serving as a concrete step toward inclusion. By empowering marginalized communities today, the system ensures that future generations inherit a society where opportunities are not limited by caste, class, or social disadvantage, thereby reinforcing the principle of justice at the core of India’s democratic framework.
Follow: Karnataka Government
Also read: Home | Channel 6 Network – Latest News, Breaking Updates: Politics, Business, Tech & More
