How is it that what was explicity forbidden by the Constitution- classification based on cast – has become the rule? How is it that what were enabling provision have become mandatory minima ? Where does the figure 50 per cent come from ? How is that in practice it is exceeded blatantly ? Are the benefits not being hogged by a few ,the better –off among these castes? Has the “creamy layer” been actually hived off? How is that what were begun as reservations in promotion also? How did this become a right to accelerated promotions? How did that become a right “accelerated promotions with consequential seniority”? How did that become a right to have the prescribed standards diluted –to the point of being waived altogether? Even in educational institutions. Is this any way to become a knowledge super- power”? As there has been no caste-wise enumeration and tabulation since the 1931 Census, where does this mythical figure --“OBCs are 52 per cent of the population” come from? And what did the 1931 Census itself say about its cast –wise figures?

Arun Shourie is one of India's best known commentators on current and political affairs. He has been an economist with the World Bank, a consultant to the Planning Commission and Editor of The Indian Express. His writings have gained him a vast following across the country, as well as several national and international awards.