Government Jobs at Risk for Those Misusing Reservation After Religious Conversion: Nationwide Campaign to Begin

New Delhi: The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) is set to launch a nationwide campaign to identify individuals who have converted to Christianity but continue to avail benefits of caste-based reservation in government jobs and educational institutions. Under the Indian Constitution, reservation benefits for Scheduled Castes (SC) apply only to Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists.

Crackdown on Misuse of Reservation

Following complaints from multiple states, the NCSC is taking strict action against misuse of reservation benefits. Reports suggest that in several instances, individuals had converted to Hinduism merely to claim SC reservation benefits. The commission has instructed state governments to thoroughly examine caste certificates issued in government departments and educational institutions to ensure compliance with the law.

This move comes shortly after the Allahabad High Court directed the Uttar Pradesh government to take action against those who have converted to Christianity but continue to enjoy SC reservation benefits.

Religious Conversion Makes SC Reservation Invalid

Article 341 of the Constitution and the President’s Order of 1950 clearly define caste-based reservation eligibility. Anyone who follows a religion other than Hinduism, Sikhism, or Buddhism is not considered a Scheduled Caste member. Consequently, individuals who convert to Christianity are ineligible for SC reservation, regardless of their previous caste status.

Reporting System to Track Violations

NCSC Chairman Kishore Makwana told the Economic Times:
“After receiving multiple complaints from various states, we are directing state governments to verify records and thoroughly investigate those availing SC reservation in government jobs after converting to another religion. The commission aims to establish a long-term reporting system enabling states to monitor this continuously and share data with the NCSC. This will help curb any misuse.”

Supreme Court Confirms Legal Precedent

In 2024, the Supreme Court upheld a Madras High Court decision rejecting a woman’s claim for SC benefits after she had converted from Christianity to Hinduism. The woman argued that she was a Hindu at the time of applying for the Upper Division Clerk post in Puducherry and should receive caste certification. The Supreme Court rejected the claim, stating that religious conversion intended solely to gain reservation benefits constitutes fraud against the Constitution.