For the first time in history, the Supreme Court of India has officially implemented reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in its staff recruitment process. The major move comes after the court's recent verdict providing for Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) quotas in appointments.
Apart from OBCs, the revised policy also includes reservation for physically challenged candidates, ex-servicemen and freedom fighters' dependents.
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“Reservation in direct recruitment to various categories of posts…shall be in accordance with the rules, orders and notifications issued by the Government of India from time to time…” – Supreme Court notification
This significant inclusion was made through an amendment to the Supreme Court Officers and Servants (Conditions of Service and Conduct) Rules, 1961. The new provisions were brought into effect by a notification dated July 3, 2025 by the Chief Justice of India exercising powers under clause (2) of Article 146 of the Constitution.
As per the updated Rule 4A, direct recruitment to various posts in the Supreme Court will now follow the reservation policies of the Government of India, depending on the corresponding pay scales of the advertised posts. The rule also allows the Chief Justice to amend, vary or apply exceptions to these rules, if necessary.
“…subject to such amendments, variations or exceptions as the Chief Justice may specify from time to time.” – Rule 4A (Amendment)
This amendment is a progressive step towards inclusivity and equal opportunity within the highest judiciary administrative structure of the country.