How the conversion affects the booking

The Supreme Court recently upheld the Madras High Court judgment invalidating the Tamil Nadu government’s order dated March 9, 2024. | Photo credit: File photo

The repeal of the Tamil Nadu Ordinance 2024 highlights the difference between Scheduled Caste status and Backward Class classification. Conversion cannot automatically transfer a person to another notified community, but continued social disadvantage requires an evidence-based investigation.

On 15 October 2026, the Supreme Court in the case of The Secretary to Government v. Sameer Ahamed N. upheld the judgment of the Madras High Court quashing the Government of Tamil Nadu (Ms.) Order No. 31 dated 9 March 2024. The purpose of the order was to enable converts to Islam from Backward Classes (BC) and SchumuntenDnoted Classes Castes (BC) Most Backwardledes (SC) to obtain certificates for backward class Muslims and avail the state 3.5% reservation for BC Muslims.

Published – 21 October 2026 07:00 IST