Reservation System Hindering Nation’s Progress: Gujarat High Court Judge

 

In a strong statement, Justice J.S. Pardiwala of the Gujarat High Court remarked that the reservation system has become a major obstacle to India’s development. He criticized the current structure of caste-based reservations and questioned its relevance in a modern, merit-based society.

 

Justice Pardiwala stated, “If I were asked to name one system that has held back India's growth or development, I would name reservation.” He stressed that demanding quotas even after 65 years of independence and in the name of historical injustice is a setback to the principles of equality and excellence.

 

Key Observations from the Court:

 

• Reservation promotes division in society and spreads a sense of victimhood.
• It acts like a sweet poison, reducing the emphasis on merit and competence.
• The system is counterproductive in a country where competitiveness should be the foundation of progress.
• The Court warned that merit cannot be compromised through artificially lowered standards.
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He further emphasized that true equality means equal opportunity, not preferential treatment, and that the nation’s policy framework must evolve beyond caste-based classifications.

Justice Pardiwala’s remarks are being viewed as part of the growing judicial and intellectual debate on reforming India’s reservation policies, especially in the context of modern social and economic realities.