'Who said reservation is only for Muslims?': DK Shivakumar
What's the story
The Karnataka government's decision to reserve 4% of government contracts for minorities under its new policy has triggered a political storm. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accused the Congress party of indulging in appeasement politics in the wake of this decision. However, Deputy CM DK Shivakumar defended the decision, saying it is inclusive of all minority communities and not just Muslims.
Contract limitation
Reservation applies only to contracts below ₹2 crore
Shivakumar added that the reservation policy would be applicable only for contracts up to ₹1cr for Muslim contractors, like the provisions made earlier for SC/ST communities. "Everyone deserves a livelihood," he said, adding that BJP's continued criticism of Congress would only strengthen them. This clarification comes amidst allegations from BJP leaders that the policy was due to the influence of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.
Political fallout
BJP leaders criticize Karnataka government's reservation policy
BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad slammed the Karnataka government for the move, saying it demonstrates the "mentality of Rahul Gandhi." He further cautioned of its possible consequences across the country. BJP MP Tejasvi Surya alleged Congress is abusing public resources for vote-bank politics and making the economy a playground of political opportunism. BJP has pledged to keep fighting against the policy, as a religion-based reservation isn't constitutional.
Upcoming meeting
Shivakumar prepares for delimitation meeting in Chennai
Apart from the political storm over reservation policy, Shivakumar is getting ready to represent Karnataka at a delimitation meeting convened by Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin on March 22. The meeting will discuss the Centre's three-language formula for national education policy and delimitation. Shivakumar has previously backed his ally on delimitation concerns.
Election readiness
Karnataka government ready for delayed elections
Shivakumar has also said the Karnataka government is "of course ready" to hold the delayed elections. "The government is, of course, ready. How long can it be postponed?" he said. "We have called for a meeting of past candidates for BBMP elections from the Congress party to collect their feedback. Then, we will call for a meeting of candidates from all parties," he added.