We will convince SC on quotas: Arjun Singh

Human Resource Development Minister Arjun Singh is optimistic that the government will be able to convince the Supreme Court on the reservation for other backward classes (OBCs) in higher education institutions. 

Speaking at a national conference on social exclusion and inclusive policies, Singh said: "So far, the country had many policies that yielded good results on education and economic development of the under privileged (scheduled caste and schedule tribe). Advances made, however, are still short of expectation for the deprived sections of the society. We have to understand the anguish of this vast multitude who are not yet to be equipped in the labour market economy."

Singh even criticised people opposing quotas, and said: "It is difficult to ask all people enjoying comfort, but there is no escape for India from doing this."

On the reservation for OBCs, which is being heard by the Supreme Court, Singh said: "We are trying to convince the Court on reservation for OBCs, and we are hopeful that we will be able to convince it."

Arjun Singh went a step further and said that the country needs all policies to be inclusive and not just one policy (like reservation).