After SC/ST Quotas, Supreme Court Introduces OBC Reservations in Staff Appointments for First Time

The Supreme Court of India has introduced reservations for Other Backwards Classes (OBCs) in staff recruitment for the first time. 

This move comes shortly after similar quotas were extended to Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs). 

Through a notification dated July 3, 2025, the Chief Justice of India amended the Supreme Court Officers and Servants (Conditions of Service and Conduct) Rules, 1961, substituting Rule 4A. 

The revised rule mandates reservations in direct recruitment for SCs, STs, OBCs, physically challenged persons, ex-servicemen, and dependents of freedom fighters, aligning with Government of India policies under Article 146(2) of the Constitution.