The Reserved and the Unreserved

On this day of 69th anniversary of India's independence day, while the whole country is busy in the celebrations, one state of India, Gandhi's very own Gujarat is in another mood, for the Reservation status.

As is known, from 2 months now, the youth of Gujarat from certain 2 castes are demanding reservation so that they can too get 'equal status' in job and other benefits. 

These two castes are Patel and Rajputs.

It is very well known that keeping aside the farmers, Patel's are known for their material power. They have every riches. Half of USA is now of Patels. They have no dearth of money. Yet, they are now demanding Reservation. 

Another caste 'Rajputs' or 'Kshatriya' is also demanding Reservation after the Patels demanded the same. They too dont want to be left out. 

Now, why the Reservation was introduced in the first place?

As far as I understand, Reservation was introduced to benefit those sections of the society who were backward in education, their financial economy and society so that those talented could come ahead and benefit themselves and the society itself. But what happened? Reservation got entangled in caste based politics itself along with politicians. Now everyone wants a piece of the cake. 

Ideally Reservation should be for those who are as mentioned above economically backward but talented, educationally backward yet talented, irrespective of the caste or creed. Lets take an example below

Lets assume 'A' is economically unstable but has the zeal and talent to pursue the right education and services to do something for him and society. He can avail the Reservation, get a seat in college, study hard and smart, secure a seat in civil services and other govt jobs and bring results for his state/nation and family in ethical ways. Then 'A' should opt out of the reservation status as he is now secure enough. He should not insist the same for the family nor the law should be applied so.

But and a big BUT, after some years down the line, if his son is not talented enough to come ahead on the basis of his merit, reservation should not be applied to him. He must find his own means of livelihood.   A person should prove himself/herself to be worthy of reservation. 

Imagine if this happens. The talent will come out and prove itself and resources of the nation will be used efficiently and effectively. 

Just my thoughts. 

Kuldip