Deliberate Move by Government: K’taka Minister Discusses Muslim Quota in Tenders
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara announced that the 4 percent Muslim quota in government tenders was a deliberate decision by the Congress government, emphasizing the need to integrate marginalized communities into the mainstream.
Key Takeaways
- 4 percent Muslim quota in tenders is a conscious decision.
- Muslims comprise 16 to 18 percent of Karnataka's population.
- Reservation policies aimed at integrating backward communities.
- Successful guarantee schemes in Karnataka acknowledged by other states.
- BJP's Janakrosh Yatra initiated amidst Congress's effective governance.
Bengaluru, April 7 (NationPress) Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara stated on Monday that the allocation of a 4 percent Muslim quota in government tenders was a deliberate move by the Congress government.
While addressing journalists in Bengaluru, Parameshwara responded to inquiries by saying, “Actions such as implementing a 4 percent Muslim quota in government tenders and utilizing SCP-TSP funds for guarantee schemes have been taken intentionally by the government and the party. It is essential to integrate anyone who has been marginalized in society into the mainstream.”
He pointed out that Muslims represent 16 to 18 percent of Karnataka’s populace and questioned if this considerable minority should remain disadvantaged. “Whether they are Christians, Jains, or Muslims -- these minority groups should also be integrated into the mainstream alongside us,” he remarked.
He underscored that the necessity for reservation is a broader issue. “When reservations were first implemented for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, similar questions arose. Those who have remained in a state of backwardness for generations must be integrated into the mainstream, which is precisely what the Constitution mandates,” Parameshwara stated.
Discussing the guarantee schemes, he mentioned, “Our state’s successful execution of guarantees is being examined by other states. If our model had been unsuccessful, why would they be observing us? Even states governed by the BJP are adopting our programs, which clearly indicates their success.”
In response to criticism faced by Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy regarding guarantee issues, Parameshwara noted that situations differ from state to state. “If there are any deficiencies, the party leadership will rectify them and provide necessary support,” he remarked.
Addressing the BJP's initiation of the Janakrosh Yatra, Parameshwara commented, “The BJP cannot tolerate the effective governance being provided by the Congress-led government in the state. They assumed we would fail to implement the guarantees promised during our election campaign. However, we succeeded – and this has cultivated public confidence.”
“Our policies and programs are being realized, and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s budget has garnered public acclaim as a balanced and inclusive document. In light of this, the BJP feels pressured to act; otherwise, they risk becoming irrelevant,” he added.
Further commenting on the Yatra, he questioned its basis: “To initiate a Janakrosh Yatra, there should be akrosh (public anger). But where is that anger? BJP leaders and workers are displaying their own frustration. If genuine anger existed among the populace, it would be apparent. However, that is simply not the case,” he asserted.
The BJP's Janakrosh Yatra is set to commence on Monday from CM Siddaramaiah’s hometown, Mysuru. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi is leading the statewide protest.
