The Centre's opposition to income-based preferences within reserved categoriesThe government stated that the criteria for inclusion in the SC, ST and SEBC lists are based on historical, social and economic backwardness. Socially and Educationally Backward Classes are identified by social, educational, and economic disadvantages, along with a lack of representation in services. Centre says reservation policy cannot be changed without empirical studyThe government said that introducing income-based preferences within reserved categories would require a broader review of the existing reservation policy. The Centre also explained the existing procedure for notification and the criteria followed for identifying SCs, STs, OBCs/SEBCs and EWS. It said the Court should refrain from directing the executive to frame reservation policies or introduce income-based preferences without empirical data or a legislative mandate.