Jharkhand has completed data collection on the population of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) from all districts to determine OBC quotas in the 48 urban local bodies (ULBs) across the state.

• This marks the first stage in implementing the “triple test” mandated by the Supreme Court to ensure constitutionally valid OBC reservation in local bodies.

What is the “Triple Test”?

It was outlined by the Supreme Court in the Vikas Kishanrao Gawali vs. State of Maharashtra (March 2021) judgment, the “triple test” lays down three conditions for OBC reservation in local bodies:

1. Dedicated Commission: Set up a commission to conduct a rigorous empirical inquiry into the nature and extent of backwardness in local bodies.
2. Reservation Proportion: Specify the proportion of reservation required based on the commission’s recommendations to avoid excessive or blanket quotas.
3. 50% Cap: Ensure that aggregate reservation (SCs, STs, OBCs combined) does not exceed 50% of  total seats, maintaining constitutional balance (as established in Indira Sawhney & Others vs. Union of India (1992).

Significance

• The triple test ensures that reservations are based on empirical evidence, social justice, and constitutional principles.
• It addresses concerns of equitable political representation for backward classes without breaching the 50% cap on reservations.

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