Backward class of a citizen Constitution of India, Arts 15(4), 16(4) Art 15(4) speaks about “socially and educationally backward classes of citizens” while Art 16(4) speaks only of “any backward class citizens”. However, it is now settled that the expression “backward class of citizens” in Art 16(4) means the same thing as the expression “any socially and educationally backward class of citizens” in Art 15(4). In order to qualify for being called a ‘backward class citizen’ he must be a member of a socially and educationally backward class. It is social and educational backwardness of a class which is material for the purposes of both Arts 15(4) and 16(4). (Janki Prasad Pramod v. State of J & K., (1973) 1 SCC 420 (432,433)