Why is BJP Criticizing Opposition for Their Stance on SEBC Reservation in Higher Education?
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Synopsis
BJP's recent announcement of 11.25% reservation for SEBC in Odisha's higher education has ignited controversy. The ruling party accuses opposition of hypocrisy, highlighting their past failures in implementing OBC reservations. This article delves into the ongoing political tussle and implications for the state's backward classes.
Key Takeaways
- BJP announces 11.25% reservation for SEBC in higher education.
- Opposition parties accuse BJP of hypocrisy regarding OBC reservations.
- Protests planned by opposition demanding greater reservation percentages.
- Historical context of past opposition to reservation policies highlighted.
- Significant implications for 54% of the state's population affected by these decisions.
Bhubaneswar, May 20 (NationPress) The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) launched a strong critique against the opposition parties, Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and Congress, for their criticism of the BJP government’s recent decision regarding reservations for Socially and Educationally Backward Classes (SEBC) in higher education.
During a press briefing on Tuesday, Manmohan Samal, the president of Odisha BJP, stated that the opposition lacks the moral authority to comment on the state's reservations for the Other Backward Classes (OBC) after failing to implement any substantial measures during their administration.
He accused the opposition of merely shedding “crocodile tears” and engaging in “drama” concerning the SEBC/OBC reservation issue. Samal condemned their calls for agitation, questioning, “Why did Congress and BJD not put a reservation for OBCs into practice during their tenures? They have no ethical stance to discuss OBC reservation, especially when their leaders previously opposed it and even approached the Supreme Court. What prevented them from implementing the promised 11.25 percent reservation for SEBC/OBCs? They neglected these communities and committed a social injustice.”
He further highlighted that the BJP government is actively working to guarantee an 11.25 percent reservation for SEBC students in medical, technical, and other professional education courses.
Within just 11 months of taking office, the BJP government made a landmark decision to announce a 11.25 percent reservation for SEBCs/OBCs in higher education, fulfilling its commitment to uphold the rights of backward classes.
Samal remarked, “Biju Babu, the namesake of BJD, was the first Chief Minister to contest against backward class reservations in the Supreme Court. When the Mandal Commission report was presented in Parliament, Rajiv Gandhi, then the leader of the opposition, also opposed it. Both opposition parties seem frustrated as Prime Minister Modi and Chief Minister Mohan Majhi take significant steps for the welfare of backward classes.”
Additionally, Samal confirmed that PM Modi has initiated a caste census, which will soon commence in the state.
On May 14, the Mohan Majhi-led BJP government declared a 11.25 percent reservation for SEBC/OBC students in higher education courses in Odisha, a decision that has sparked controversy. The opposition, including BJD and Congress, accused the government of betraying OBCs, who make up 54 percent of the state's population.
They criticized the ruling party for excluding medical, engineering, and other professional courses from the reservation. The opposition has announced a protest rally in front of the Raj Bhavan on May 21, demanding a 27 percent reservation for OBCs in higher education, including professional courses, alongside a state-wide protest by the Congress.
Point of View
The recent actions and responses surrounding the reservation for SEBC in Odisha reflect the ongoing complexities in Indian politics. While the BJP claims to uphold the rights of backward classes, the opposition's historical failures raise questions about their credibility. The situation demands a careful examination of the policies being implemented and their real impact on the communities involved.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recent reservation announcement made by BJP in Odisha?
The BJP government in Odisha announced an 11.25% reservation for Socially and Educationally Backward Classes (SEBC) in higher education courses.
Why are opposition parties criticizing the BJP's decision?
Opposition parties, including BJD and Congress, accuse the BJP of betraying OBCs by excluding them from certain professional courses and question the timing of the announcement.
What historical context do the opposition parties refer to?
They highlight that during their tenure, the BJP had previously criticized OBC reservations, raising concerns about their current stance.
What actions are opposition parties planning in response?
The opposition has organized a protest rally demanding a 27% reservation for OBCs in higher education, including professional courses.
How significant is this reservation for SEBC in terms of population?
OBCs represent approximately 54% of Odisha's total population, making this reservation a critical issue for a large segment of the state's residents.
