Mayawati opposes ‘creamy layer’ for SCs, STs in reservation, hits out at RSS
BSP leader Mayawati has publicly opposed the introduction of a 'creamy layer' concept for SC and ST reservation policies. She criticized the RSS for politicizing the issue and argued that reservation is essential for social justice.
Why it matters
This highlights a significant ongoing debate in Indian politics regarding the implementation of affirmative action and the protection of marginalized communities.
BSP supremo Mayawati on Sunday (August 9, 2026) opposed the 'creamy layer' concept in reservations for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, arguing that affirmative action was linked to their social transformation, economic emancipation and self-respect and criticised the RSS for politicising the issue.
In a post on X, Mayawati said reservation was an "extremely important and sensitive" issue for SC, ST and OBC communities, particularly for SCs and STs who have faced discrimination, exploitation and deprivation for centuries.
She said discussing a 'creamy layer' for these communities was not only inappropriate but also contrary to the "humanitarian objectives" of the Constitution drafted under the leadership of Dr BR Ambedkar.
"Reservation is essentially about giving millions of people who have been victims of the caste system for centuries, and who have been exploited, oppressed, neglected and ostracised, their constitutional and legal right to equality on humanitarian grounds," she said.
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