Bengaluru: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has firmly rejected allegations that reservation benefits are exclusive to Muslims, clarifying that quota policies are inclusive of all disadvantaged communities based on socio-economic and historical criteria.
Amid growing political friction, the BJP has criticized the Congress government, accusing it of appeasement politics. In response, Shivakumar asserted that reservations are constitutionally granted and apply equally to all backward groups, irrespective of religious identity.
He emphasized that quota benefits are determined by social and educational backwardness, not religion, aligning with the principles enshrined in the Constitution. The Deputy CM denounced misinformation being circulated and stressed that every eligible community is entitled to welfare benefits.
According to Shivakumar, Karnataka’s reservation system supports Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), ensuring that no group is excluded based on faith.
He reiterated the Congress government’s commitment to inclusive development and social justice, ensuring that all communities in need receive rightful support. He urged political opponents to refrain from divisive rhetoric and to respect the constitutional mandate on reservations.
Shivakumar also highlighted ongoing welfare programs aimed at empowering backward sections through education, employment, and social upliftment, demonstrating the government’s dedication to equal opportunity for all.
The Deputy CM concluded by reaffirming that reservations are a tool for upliftment, not political appeasement, and warned against polarizing narratives that distort the objective of social equity.
