OBC Case: The OBC reservation case in West Bengal has taken a new turn, sparking widespread discussion across the state. Challenging multiple orders from the Calcutta High Court, the case is now pending before the Supreme Court. This legal battle will play a crucial role in determining the future of the OBC community in the state. The next hearing is scheduled for September 9, 2025, before a bench including the Chief Justice of India, Justice Surya Kant, and Justice Vikram Nath, which will determine the future course of this complex legal process.
Background of the Case and Calcutta High Court’s Verdict
At the heart of this legal battle are multiple orders issued by the Calcutta High Court on June 17, 2025. These rulings were delivered by benches of Justice Rajashekhar Mantha and Justice Tapabrata Chakraborty. After a new survey conducted by the state government in June-July, 140 castes were included in the OBC list, which was challenged in the Calcutta High Court. When the High Court issued a stay on this new list, the state government approached the Supreme Court, where another stay order was issued.
Supreme Court’s Intervention
The Supreme Court has also issued a stay on the results of the West Bengal Joint Entrance Examination (WBJEE), except for 7% of the 66 specified castes. In its orders on August 22 and August 28, 2025, the apex court stayed the Calcutta High Court’s orders, particularly the June 17 order that included 140 new castes in the OBC list.
Current Situation and Future Prospects
Currently, the position of OBCs in the state is considered quite favorable, with a “re-survey” process underway for the 140 castes. In the hearing on September 9, 2025, the opposition is expected to present new arguments or opinions, based on which the court will move towards a final judgment. Kapil Sibal, representing the state, had sought a stay on the cancellation of OBC reservations post-2010, but the opposing side requested more time to present their arguments.
This case is not just a legal battle; it will have a profound impact on the social and political landscape of the state. The verdict of this case will determine the future of education, employment, and social security for the people of the OBC community in West Bengal. All eyes are now on the Supreme Court, where this historic case will be settled.
