Delhi protests erupt over caste-based reservation reforms

Protests regarding India’s caste-based reservation system have intensified in Delhi, led by the social media-driven ‘Reservation Hatao Andolan’. Demonstrators have gathered at Jantar Mantar and Connaught Place, demanding reforms such as the introduction of economic criteria for quotas, a ‘creamy-layer’ provision, and a review of the University Grants Commission (UGC) Equity Regulations, 2026.

During a demonstration at Connaught Place, police detained over 20 protesters because the gathering lacked official permission. Authorities also clarified that viral videos claiming permission had been granted for certain protests were “false and misleading”.

In response to the movement, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak met with a delegation of protesters in Lucknow. Pathak assured the group that their demands would be presented to the central leadership and promised a meeting with a Union Minister within two days.

Political leaders have reacted sharply to the unrest. Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav characterized calls for ‘reservation reform’ as a conspiracy to abolish quotas, asserting that reservation is a constitutional right for marginalized communities. Conversely, Union Minister Chirag Paswan stated the government is willing to engage in dialogue once protesters present their demands in a systematic manner.