S. SWVIGARADOSS vs ZONAL MANAGER, F.C.I.

The Supreme Court addressed the issue of Scheduled Caste status under Article 366(24) and Article 341 of the Constitution of India. It held that the petitioner, despite being born to Christian parents, could not claim Scheduled Caste benefits as he was not included in the official notification specifying Scheduled Castes. The Court emphasized that only the President, in consultation with the Governor, has the authority to designate castes as Scheduled Castes, and this designation cannot be altered by private conversion or claims. The petition was dismissed, affirming the lower court's ruling.