Let’s redefine the cream in creamy layer: Arjun to PM

The Supreme Court put the creamy layer rider to keeping the relatively “well-off” amongst the backwards out of the quota net. Sources told The Indian Express that the HRD minister, during his 15-minute session with the PM just ahead of the Cabinet meeting, mooted the idea of increasing the income threshold from Rs 2.5 lakh per annum to a “more reasonable limit,” a point, incidentally, raised by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati yesterday.

In fact, the income criteria of Rs 2.5 lakh was revised in 2004, up from Rs 1 lakh which was set in 1993.

Sources said the HRD minister argued that Inflation in the last four years and Sixth Pay Commission recommendations need to be factored in while revising the limit. This is exactly what was done in 2004, the revision from Rs 1 lakh to 2.5 lakh had taken into account the Fifth Pay Commission recommendations in 1996-97.

Sources said the HRD minister’s bid for a “review” of the creamy layer criterion, doesn’t just end with the income criterion, he is also looking at proposing changes in some other provisions as well, especially the clause which puts children of Class II officers in the creamy layer category.

However, any change in the creamy layer criterion has to be moved and piloted by the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, headed by Meira Kumar, also a pro-OBC votary in the Cabinet. The Government will then have to consider this matter through inter-ministerial consultations and approve it in the Cabinet.