The Centre has told the Supreme Court that reservations for SC, ST, and OBC will be given in temporary appointments that are to last for 45 days or more. It further said that instructions have been issued to all Ministries and Departments to strictly implement this reservation in temporary posts.
Responding to a writ petition that sought for SC/ST/OBC quota in temporary jobs, the Central Government informed the Court about Office Memorandum no. 41034/4/2022-Estt. (RES-I) dated November 21, 2022, issued by the Department of Personnel and Training, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Government of India.
Referring to previous OMs issued in 1968 and 2018, the present OM said, “It has been reiterated that in respect of appointments to Central Government posts and services, there shall be reservation for Scheduled Caste/ Scheduled Tribe/ Other Backward Class candidates in temporary appointments which are to last for 45 days or more.”
Taking note of this OM, the top court disposed of the writ petition. In case there is a violation of this OM, the court said it will be open to the petitioners or an aggrieved party to take recourse to appropriate remedies in accordance with the law.
Further, the apex court recorded the statement of the counsel appearing for the Centre that a mechanism is in place to deal with cases of failure to follow or abide by the Office Memorandum dated November 21, 2012.
(With inputs from LiveLaw)
