New Delhi: On Saturday, Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar expressed his support for Chief Minister Siddaramaiah regarding the controversy surrounding the 4% reservation. This support comes in response to allegations from the BJP, which accused the Congress government of implementing the quota for the purpose of “Muslim appeasement.”
In refutation of these claims, the Deputy Chief Minister clarified that the 4% reservation is intended not solely for Muslims but for all minorities and backward classes.
Siddaramaiah’s Budget Announcement
On Friday, Siddaramaiah revealed the inclusion of reservations for government contracts in the state Budget for 2025, which allocates Rs 42,018 crore for the welfare of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
During his address to the Assembly, although he did not specify any particular community, the Budget referenced category 2B, which pertains exclusively to Muslims.
“According to the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurement Act, the reservation for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Category-I, Category-IIA, and Category-IIB contractors will be raised to Rs 2 crore for works,” Siddaramaiah stated.
The Karnataka government has revised the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurement (KTPP) Act, enabling reservations for SC, ST, Category 1, Category 2A, and Category 2B suppliers for contracts valued up to Rs 1 crore.
In response to requests from minority leaders for a 4% allocation of contract works for Muslims, a cabinet meeting was convened by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to deliberate on the proposal. The Finance Department prepared the necessary framework, and the amendment received approval with the agreement of Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister HK Patil.
BJP Criticism of Congress Regarding Reservation
The BJP criticized the Congress government over this matter, labeling it as the “height of appeasement politics.” The party asserted that the state government is acting contrary to the principles of the Constitution.
State BJP president BY Vijayendra has criticized the Congress government, asserting that it is leading Karnataka towards conflict. He pointed out that the state government has not allocated any funds for MLAs, and without the initiation of tenders or the assignment of work, the proposed reservation lacks significance.
“Does the historic party believe that only Muslims represent the minority population? If Chief Minister Siddaramaiah genuinely sees himself as a leader for Ahinda, he ought to prioritize the empowerment of all marginalized communities and enhance their economic standing,” Vijayendra remarked.
“Communities such as Madivala, Savita, and several others also exist and are in need of state assistance. However, the government is neglecting to integrate them into the mainstream and is instead concentrating on appeasing Muslims. The electorate will ultimately hold them accountable,” he added.
