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Reservation isn’t a fundamental right: Supreme Court

AGENCIES / NEW DELHI

The Supreme Court on Thursday said that reservation of seats to certain communities was not a Fundamental Right and refused to act on a petition filed by all political parties from Tamil Nadu who sought 50% OBC reservation in the all-India NEET seats surrendered by states.
“We appreciate the concern of all political parties for the welfare of Backward Classes. But reservation is not a Fundamental Right,” Justice LN Rao said.
The petitioners were asked to approach the Madras High Court. Justice Rao lauded the sentiment behind the move, which had parties of all shades from the state on the same page, as “unusual” for Tamil Nadu but refused to hear them.
“You should withdraw it and go to the high court. You are only interested in 50% reservation in Tamil Nadu.” He added: “We appreciate all political parties upholding the state’s interests.”
Arguing for parties led by the DMK, advocate P Wilson said that they were not asking the court to add to existing reservations. “We are asking the court to implement the existing reservations,” he argued.
“Whose Fundamental Rights are being violated,” Justice Rao asked. “Article 32 is available only for violation of Fundamental Rights,” he said.