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The Odisha government last week approved a significant proposal to introduce reservation for the socially and economically backward classes (SEBC) in the state. Beginning this academic

session, 11.25 percent of seats will be reserved for SEBC students for admission to public universities as well as state-run higher education institutions under the control of four

administrative departments. Reservation has for long been a pain point for the backward classes, who form a sizeable part of Odisha’s population. In 1994, after the Mandal Commission

agitation, the state implemented a 27 percent quota in government jobs, which was curtailed to 11.25 percent after the state’s administrative tribunal struck it down. It was later upheld by

the Orissa High Court on the basis of the 50 percent cap imposed by the Supreme Court. The scheduled castes and tribes are entitled to reservation of 22.5 percent and 16.25 percent,

respectively. The latest policy decision is a milestone considering that the SEBCs will get their due in the education system for the first time. It placates communities that have for long

been seeking a 27 percent quota in education and gives the BJP an advantage before the important rural and urban local body elections in 2027. It also aligns with the NDA narrative of social

justice and comes weeks after the caste enumeration announced by the Centre.