New Delhi, Aug. 6 -- The Union Government has opposed a plea in the Supreme Court seeking income-based provision of benefits within the reserved categories, by contending that discrimination against Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs) and Other Backward Classes (OBCs)/Socially and Educationally Backward Classes (SEBCs) does not occur on the basis of economic conditions, but stems from historical and social disadvantage.

It has further contended that any exclusion of a "creamy layer" from the SC/ST lists cannot be undertaken by the State government or the courts, but only through legislation enacted by Parliament under Articles 341 and 342 of the Constitution.

In its counter response to the plea, the Centre has contended that ...