Industry sees little merit

The proposal for 27 per cent reservation for other backward classes (OBCs) in institutions of higher learning like IITs, IIMs and 20 central universities has evoked concern from the industry.

IT players said the industry was run purely on merit and even after reservation, the backward class candidates may not be successful.

"Under the proposal, 50 per cent seats will get blocked and the backlash can be huge. The issue is such that it cannot be easily resolved," said HCL Technologies Vice-President (Strategy) Saurav Adhikari.

Kiran Karnik, president, Nasscom, said the issue of reservation for OBCs was a sensitive one and the IT industry would take a collective stand.

"Since education is important to us, the industry will take a decision after holding discussions with all stakeholders in a few days," Karnik added.

"The real impact will be felt only after five years when these students pass out and enter industry. In the long-term, however, we will formulate an action plan to address this," said Wipro, V-P (Strategic Resourcing) Achutan Nair.