In a widely circulated video, Verma claimed that despite SC-ST candidates qualifying for top examinations such as IAS, IPS, and state civil services, they are “filtered out” in the civil judge recruitment process. “It is the High Court itself that isn’t allowing children of the ST community to become civil judges,” he said, questioning how candidates scoring over 75% in national-level law exams fail to cross a 50% cutoff.
Verma further alleged deliberate low marking in both written tests and interviews, asserting that awarding 49.95 marks against a 50% cutoff effectively eliminates SC-ST aspirants. He argued that excluding them from entry-level judicial posts would ultimately obstruct their progression to higher judiciary positions.
The statement has intensified existing tensions. Brahmin and other upper-caste organisations, already angered by Verma’s earlier remarks on inter-caste marriages, accused him of violating constitutional norms and demanded immediate disciplinary action. They have announced a large protest outside the Chief Minister’s residence on December 14, under campaigns titled “Operation Bagawat” and “Operation Asmita.”
Activists have also condemned his recent assertion that “a Santosh Verma will rise from every household,” calling it provocative. Sanatan preacher Harsha Richhariya warned that such rhetoric could lead to deep societal conflict, saying, “If this mindset spreads, then Mahabharat will happen in India.”
Upper-caste groups plan a preparatory meeting on December 11, while protests and effigy burnings continue across the state. The government has not yet issued an official response, but pressure is mounting for action as the controversy widens.
