Question

Which of the following is not a part of the 'triple test' for determining the validity of a reservation policy under Article 16(4) of the Constitution?

• A. Backwardness of the class
• B. Inadequacy of representation
• C. Overall administrative efficiency
• D. Extent of reservation

Hint:

The 'triple test' asks *why* reservation is needed for a group (backwardness, under-representation) and its *impact* (on efficiency). The 'extent' (how much) is a separate question, generally capped at 50%.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The 'triple test' for justifying reservation in public employment, particularly in promotions, was laid down by the Supreme Court in cases like M. Nagaraj v. Union of India. The state is required to provide quantifiable data to satisfy three conditions: \begin{enumerate} \item (A) The backwardness of the class seeking reservation. \item (B) The inadequacy of representation of that class in public services. \item (C) The maintenance of overall administrative efficiency (as mandated by Article 335). \end{enumerate} The "extent of reservation," while a crucial factor governed by the 50% ceiling rule from the Indra Sawhney case, is considered a separate constraint on the reservation policy rather than a part of the core triple test used to justify the need for reservation for a specific class.