Why are Adivasi Leaders Calling for Internal Classification in ST Reservation?
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Synopsis
In a significant meeting in Bengaluru, Adivasi leaders urged for internal classification within Scheduled Tribes to ensure equitable distribution of reservations. This call comes in light of a Supreme Court ruling that demands a structured approach to reservation policies. Will the Karnataka government heed their request?
Key Takeaways
- Adivasi leaders are advocating for internal classification within Scheduled Tribes.
- Over 30 leaders from various districts participated in the meeting.
- The Karnataka government has implemented reservations for Scheduled Castes but not for Scheduled Tribes.
- Concerns exist about the inclusivity of the reservation system.
- A call for a commission to address these issues has been made.
Bengaluru, Oct 9 (NationPress) Leaders from the Adivasi community convened at the Legislators’ Home in Bengaluru on Thursday, advocating for the implementation of internal reservation for Scheduled Tribes. Following the session, these leaders engaged with Social Welfare Minister H.C. Mahadevappa, Law Minister H.K. Patil, and Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh, presenting a formal memorandum.
Over 30 representatives from various Adivasi groups across 12 districts attended the meeting.
BJP MLC Shantaram Siddi remarked, "The landmark ruling on internal reservation issued on August 1, 2024, stated that internal classification should also encompass Scheduled Tribes, alongside Scheduled Castes. Yet, the Karnataka government has only acted on the internal reservation for Scheduled Castes thus far."
MLC Siddi highlighted the critical challenges in reservation implementation for Scheduled Tribes, noting that small tribes, micro-tribes, weaker tribes, and dominant communities are all classified under a single umbrella.
This broad classification has resulted in numerous tribal communities being excluded from the advantages of the government's reservation policies. Dr. Jade Gowda, a professor from the Soliga community, urged the government to take immediate action by forming a commission led by a retired judge to ensure a scientifically sound allocation of ST reservations.
The memorandum stressed the importance of acknowledging the Supreme Court's statement that grouping unequals with equals renders reservation an illusion for the most marginalized.
The delegation included MLC Shantaram Siddi, Dr. Ganesh Bettakuruba, Hasalar Muthappa, Kudiyar Mittu Ranjan, Shivaraj Yerava, Raju Iruliga, Hakkipikki Kamaraj, Tyagaraju, H.V. Chandrashekhar (Marati Naik community), S.N. Ashok, K.S. Mahesh, Gowdlu Chetan, M.C. Yogish, and Vadiraj from Samarasyavedike.
As of October 2025, the Karnataka government, following a Supreme Court directive, has officially rolled out internal reservation for Scheduled Castes (SCs), redistributing the 17% SC quota into three new sub-categories. This decision is based on a revised version of the Justice H.N. Nagamohan Das Commission report.
The new reservation policy has sparked mixed reactions and protests from various groups. The opposition party, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), initiated an indefinite protest in September 2025, accusing the Congress government of creating injustices through the merger of distinct communities.
The Banjara and Bhovi communities organized a "Bengaluru Chalo" protest, claiming that the recent classification is "unscientific" and unjust to nomadic and semi-nomadic populations.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the significance of the Adivasi leaders' demands for internal classification within Scheduled Tribes. As the nation strives for equality and justice, addressing the complexities of reservation systems is vital to ensure that no community is left behind. The Supreme Court's involvement further underscores the necessity of a fair approach to reservation policies.
NationPress
10/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main demand of Adivasi leaders in the meeting?
Adivasi leaders demanded the Karnataka government implement internal classification within Scheduled Tribes for equitable reservation distribution.
Who did the Adivasi leaders meet after their meeting?
They met with Social Welfare Minister H.C. Mahadevappa, Law Minister H.K. Patil, and Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh.
What was the Supreme Court's stance on reservation classification?
The Supreme Court ruled that internal classification should be established within Scheduled Tribes, similar to Scheduled Castes.
What issues have been raised regarding the current reservation system?
Concerns have been raised about small and weaker tribes being grouped with dominant communities, leading to many being excluded from benefits.
What actions have been proposed to address these issues?
It has been proposed that a commission led by a retired judge be formed to ensure a scientifically sound distribution of ST reservations.
