Public policy – Is caste-based reservation in professional colleges justified? Arguments to evaluate: I. Yes, it is necessary to bring the underprivileged to parity with the privileged. II. No, it obstructs the formation of a classless society. III.

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Solve this multiple-choice question and choose the correct option.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context:The question asks whether caste-based reservation in professional colleges is justified. We must evaluate which arguments provide strong policy reasoning. Given Data / Assumptions: Reservations aim to correct historical and structural disadvantages. Professional colleges are gateways to high-opportunity careers. We assess arguments for relevance and sufficiency to the stated aim. Concept / Approach:Strong arguments align with equity, access, and remedying entrenched discrimination. Abstract ideals that ignore current inequities are less persuasive for near-term policy design. Step-by-Step Solution: I: Strong. It directly addresses the equity goal—levelling the field for underprivileged groups.II: Weak. A “classless society” is a distant ideal; refusing corrective measures now may perpetuate inequality and delay that ideal.III: Strong. Reservations can open doors historically closed by caste oppression, improving representation and mobility. Verification / Alternative check: Evidence from affirmative-action regimes indicates improved access and long-run mobility for targeted groups when well implemented. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Options including II elevate an abstract goal over practical redress; “All are strong” overstates the case for II. Common Pitfalls: Assuming neutrality (no reservation) is fair in an unequal baseline. Final Answer:Only I and III are strong

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