Shakyadeep Panda

To, The Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, South Block, New Delhi Subject: Appeal for a merit-based and economically inclusive system of opportunities Respected Sir, I write to you as a young citizen of India , a student who believes that our nation’s strength lies in equality, not division. Sir, caste-based reservation has become a political tool . After more than 75 years of independence, it has become a permanent fixture in our policy structure. While its intent was noble, its impact today deserves review - not to take away anyone’s rights, but to ensure fairness for all. According to NITI Aayog (2023) and NCRB data: • Over 70% of India’s poor today come from all castes, including so-called “upper castes,” yet they remain outside the safety net of reservation. • Nearly 85% of government jobs and higher education seats are covered under some form of reservation, leaving limited space for open competition. • Around 80,000 students from the General Category scored above 95% in Class 12 (CBSE 2024), yet many couldn’t get admission to top colleges due to seat constraints. • Meanwhile, in some institutions, the cut-off gap exceeds 50–70 marks, creating deep frustration and hopelessness among meritorious youth. Sir, India needs an economic and merit-based model of affirmative action that uplifts the poor and deserving from every section of society - not one that divides based on caste lines drawn 70 years ago. Reservation should be a support system, not a political tool. It must empower the underprivileged, not penalize merit. We, the youth of India, are not asking for special privilege - only for equal opportunity. Please initiate a national review of the reservation policy and design a new model rooted in economic need, education level, and regional backwardness, rather than inherited identity. We dream of an India where every student, regardless of caste, can say: “My future is in my hands - not in my caste certificate .” With deep respect and hope, Yours faithfully, A concerned General Category youth (For equality, fairness, and one India for all)