The Rajya Sabha has passed the Constitution (117th Amendment) Bill, 2012 providing for reservation in promotions to SCs and STs in government jobs. 206 members voted in favour while 10 against it.

The Bill required majority of the total members of the House and two-third majority of the members present and voting.

Replying to the debate, Minister of State for Personnel, V. Narayanasamy said that reservation will be to the extent of 22.5 per cent which is available to SCs and STs under the Constitution. The Minister said that UPA government is committed to give promotions to SCs and STs as the Congress party and its government is for the weaker sections of the society. He said all the political parties are committed to social justice. The Minister said in the all party meeting all parties had agreed to support the bill barring Samajwadi Party and Shiv Sena.

Giving details of representation of SCs and STs in government jobs, the Minister said that they are not adequately represented in the government service. Mr. Narayanasamy asked the Samajwadi Party why it is against reservation in promotions when it has no opposition against reservation at the entry level.

Referring to apprehensions of Leader of Opposition about reverse discrimination the Minister said that he will ask the State governments to see that the seniority of those already promoted is not affected adversely.