Reservation a constitutional right, not charity: Union minister Chirag Paswan
What's the story
Union Minister Chirag Paswan has said that reservation is a constitutional right and not a charity. His remarks come in the wake of student protests at Delhi's Jantar Mantar demanding an end to the reservation system. "Reservation is not something that can be ended at anyone's demand, nor is it charity given to anyone," Paswan said, stressing that it was meant to uplift communities historically subjected to social discrimination.
System defense
Paswan defends reservation as constitutional provision
Paswan defended the reservation system as a constitutional provision aimed at mainstreaming communities like Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
He argued that social discrimination still exists in society, making conversations about social justice important.
Referring to an incident involving Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge in Uttarakhand, he highlighted the need for more focus on social justice.
Protest response
Athawale's comments on protesters
When asked about Union Minister Ramdas Athawale's comments on the protesters, Paswan said their concerns should be heard.
He stressed that every issue could be addressed through dialogue and discussions could help clarify the purpose of reservation.
The "Reservation Hatao Andolan" protest at Jantar Mantar was organized via social media, demanding economic criteria over caste for government support.
Protest demands
Protesters detained by police
The protesters demanded that economic conditions should be considered for government support in education and other needs.
The Delhi Police had denied permission for protests at Jantar Mantar but allowed a peaceful protest at Ramlila Maidan with a limit of 500 people until 4:00pm.
Despite this, many protesters gathered at Jantar Mantar, leading to their detention by police personnel and paramilitary forces deployed in the area.