Context
The Supreme Court clarified that OBC creamy layer exclusion must be based on social status, not parental income alone, reaffirming the Indra Sawhney principle.
Indra Sawhney v. Union of India (1992)
- Upheld 27% OBC reservation.
- Introduced the creamy layer exclusion principle.
- Focused on social advancement as the key determinant.
93rd Constitutional Amendment (2005)
- Inserted Article 15(5).
- Enabled OBC reservation in educational institutions
(except minority institutions).
Ashoka Kumar Thakur Case (2008) + Present Ruling
- Reaffirmed creamy layer exclusion.
- Latest ruling clarified that salary or agricultural income alone cannot determine creamy layer status.
NCL (Non-Creamy Layer)
- OBC families not socially advanced and with parental income ≤ ₹8 lakh.
- Eligible for reservation.
- NCL certificate required for benefits.
