Editor
The Supreme Court has taken up a petition challenging a government notification that discriminates against non-Mizo Scheduled Tribes of Mizoram in the reservation for higher technical courses. The petition, filed by the Mizoram Chakma Students' Union, argues that the notification arbitrarily sub-classifies the Scheduled Tribes of Mizoram, disregarding any valid basis. The allocation of reserved seats lacks consideration for population representation, with 93% of seats exclusively reserved for permanent residents of Mizoram belonging to the Zo ethnic tribe or the majority Mizos. In contrast, a mere 1% of seats have been designated for children of other local permanent Scheduled Tribe residents. The petition contends that the notification is unconstitutional and violates the right to equality enshrined in Articles 14 and 15 of the Constitution. The literacy rates in Mizoram, which is the leading state with a 89.3% literacy rate, further highlight the need for inclusive reservation policies. The Supreme Court has issued notice to the State of Mizoram and will hear the case on July 24.
The petition emphasizes that the reserved seats should have been allocated to non-Mizo tribes to bridge the educational gap and provide them access to higher education. The notification's additional requirements for candidates falling under certain categories are also criticized for creating an imbalance. The Mizoram Chakma Students' Union, represented by senior advocate Aditya Sondhi and advocate Vikram Hegde, seeks to have the notification quashed, citing its discriminatory nature and violation of constitutional rights. The case brings attention to the importance of inclusive policies that ensure equal opportunities for all segments of society, regardless of ethnicity or background. The Supreme Court's hearing will provide a significant platform to address the issue and determine the constitutionality of the Mizoram notification.