Achieving equality through unequal measures

The reservation debate has caught the public imagination more than any other news item in the last month. It is positively refreshing to see that education still remains close to many Indian hearts.

The arguments against 'reservation in higher educational institutions' have been made in the name of merit. But is the assessment of merit accurate and comprehensive?

The last two decades, the Indian economy has grown by leaps and bounds. As a country, India holds claim to the largest democracy in the world and is undoubtedly a leader in the era of 'knowledge revolution'. However, the fact remains that there exists a huge disparity between the country's urban and rural; upper and lower class; overseas educated and illiterate. So, the consideration of who constitutes a “meritorious candidate” must be mindful of numerous socio-economic factors. This is precisely what the Mandal Commission report had done taking into account 11 social, economic and educational factors to provide a scientific basis for communities that have been systematically discriminated or have not been afforded equal opportunities in India.

So, the argument of Mandal Commission's recommendations being purely caste-based and misuse of its provisions by the cream of backward castes fall at this juncture. The assessment of merit would be grossly inadequate if one goes by individual examination marks ignoring ground realities.

Even developed countries like Australia are mindful of the existing gaps in provision of education and rectify this by the 'Countrywide Access Scheme' whereby students from rural regions (and with other disadvantages) may apply to get 'bonus marks' added to their final examination scores. This ensures a level playing field for all involved and it is the responsibility of the government to uphold equality through somewhat unequal measures.

Does this mean there will be no end in sight or a deadline for 'affirmative action' policies?

The answer to this question lies in what may well be the way ahead. Education needs to be standardised throughout the country. At the moment, individual Indian states embrace various syllabi for various reasons. Delhi is the only region where educational standards are fairly similar and the syllabus is unique. This may well be the reason why this controversy has found it's supporters predominantly in the capital. So, in summing up, reservations are necessary to ensure 'equality' until the day when education is standardised and easily accessible everywhere.