Supreme Court Stays Calcutta High Court’s OBC List Halt

The Supreme Court of India has temporarily stayed a decision by the Calcutta High Court that halted the implementation of West Bengal's newly revised Other Backward Classes (OBC) list. This development came as a relief to the state government.

A bench led by Chief Justice B R Gavai expressed initial doubts about the high court's ruling, terming it potentially flawed. He suggested that a new bench could be formed to review the matter swiftly, aiming to resolve the issue in about six weeks. Observations were made regarding the nature of reservations, highlighting that they form part of executive functions.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing West Bengal, argued the necessity of an immediate stay, pointing out impacts on appointments. While opposing counsel raised concerns about legislative frameworks, Sibal clarified that a fresh survey supported the revised list. The court issued a notice and stayed the high court's prior order.

(With inputs from agencies.)