What is Rohini Commission?

The Rohini Commission, formally known as the “Commission to Examine the Sub-Categorization of Other Backward Classes (OBCs),” was established by the Indian government to address the issue of equitable distribution of reservation benefits among the various sub-groups within the OBC category.

Key Points about the Rohini Commission:

1. Objective: The primary objective of the commission is to examine the extent of inequitable distribution of reservation benefits among OBCs and to identify sub-categories within the OBC category. The aim is to ensure that more marginalized and disadvantaged groups within the OBCs get their fair share of reservation benefits in jobs and educational institutions.
2. Establishment: The commission was set up in October 2017, and it is chaired by Justice G. Rohini, a retired Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court.
3. Mandate: The commission’s mandate includes:

• Examining the extent of inequitable distribution of benefits among the castes or communities included in the Central List of OBCs.
• Identifying the respective castes or communities or sub-castes or sub-groups in the Central List of OBCs.
• Working out the mechanism, criteria, norms, and parameters in a scientific approach for sub-categorization within such OBCs.
• Taking up the exercise of identifying the respective castes or communities or sub-castes or sub-groups in the Central List of OBCs and classifying them into their respective sub-categories.

1. Reason for Sub-Categorization: The rationale behind sub-categorization is to ensure that the benefits of reservations reach the genuinely marginalized and deprived sections within the OBC category. It is observed that a few dominant OBC communities often corner a significant share of the reservation benefits, leaving many smaller and more marginalized communities with little to no benefit.
2. Reports and Findings: The commission has sought and analyzed data from various states and central agencies. It has submitted several interim reports to the government, recommending the creation of sub-categories within OBCs and suggesting a more nuanced reservation policy.
3. Impact: The recommendations of the Rohini Commission, if implemented, are expected to have significant implications for the OBC reservation policy in India. It aims to create a more equitable and just distribution of reservation benefits, ensuring that the most disadvantaged communities within the OBCs receive their due share.

The final report and recommendations of the Rohini Commission are awaited, and their implementation will depend on the decisions of the central government.