As a result of caste based inequality, the worst hit are the Schedule Castes, Schedule Tribes and the other Backward Classes. In order to bring them into the mainstream, the makers of the Indian Constitution included certain provisions in part III, IV & XVI of the Constitution. Art. 15,16,17 and 46 contain revolutionary provisions for the creation of socialistic pattern of society or altruism in society. The aim of reservation policy is the establishment of an egalitarian society.

The National Commission for SCs and STs is empowered to change their socio-economic status through different provisions. The provision is made for the identification of other Backward Classes both by the Central and State Governments. 

They are empowered to appoint Backward Class Commission.

1. Education: Art. 15 of the Constitution provides reservation of seats to SCs, STs and Backward Classes in educational institutions. They must also reserve certain seats to the students belonging to these groups as per the 86th Constitutional Amendment Act, 15 percent of seats for SCs and 3% percent for STs are reserved. Right to Education has also provided reservation to these communities.

2. Employment: Art. 16 of the Constitution provides equal opportunities to all in public services. Art. 335 claims reservation for SCs and STs in Public Service both in Central and State Governments. At present the reservation for jobs in Central and State Governments to SCs and STs stand at 15% and 3 % respectively.

The Mandal Commission report recommended 27% job reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBC) in 1980. It was implemented in 1990.

3. Lok Sabha and Legislative Assembly: Article 330 and 332 of the Indian Constitution provides reservation to SCs and STs both in Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assembly respectively.

4. Local bodies: As per Art. 243 D of the Indian Constitution, seats are reserved for SCs and STs in every Panchayath in proportion to their population. Under the same Article the offices of the chairpersons in the Panchayath Raj Institutions are reserved for these groups as per the law made by State Governments. For Backward classes also, seats may be reserved by the State Government in any Panchayath or for offices of chairpersons. Art 243 T provides for reservation of seats for these groups in Urban local Governments.

5. Abolition of untouchability: Art. 17 of the Constitution of India provided for abolition of untouchability. The SCs and STs (prevention of atrocities) Act was enacted by Parliament in 1989. It is also known as the ‘Dalit Act’. It came into force from 30^th January 1990. It specifies the atrocities which are liable for severe penalties. Under section 21 of the act, the state governments are required to take effective measures for its implementation.