Did Lok Sabha Pass the Goa ST Reservation Bill Amidst Opposition Protests?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Amidst ongoing protests from the Opposition, the Lok Sabha successfully passed the Goa ST Reservation Bill aimed at enhancing representation for Scheduled Tribes in the Legislative Assembly. This landmark decision marks a significant step towards addressing long-standing electoral disparities in Goa.
Key Takeaways
- Lok Sabha passed the Goa ST Reservation Bill.
- Protests from the Opposition highlighted ongoing political tensions.
- Bill aims to ensure fair representation for Scheduled Tribes.
- Significant electoral disparities were addressed.
- Anticipated benefits for tribal communities in Goa.
New Delhi, Aug 5 (NationPress) The Lok Sabha on Tuesday approved the long-awaited Bill aimed at providing reservation for Scheduled Tribes (STs) in the Goa Legislative Assembly, even as protests from the Opposition regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar continued to interrupt the proceedings.
This legislative measure, known as 'The Readjustment of Representation of Scheduled Tribes in Assembly Constituencies of the State of Goa Bill, 2025', was introduced for consideration and passage by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal.
Despite the clamor in the House, the Bill was passed via a voice vote, indicating the first legislative triumph of the ongoing Monsoon Session.
The Bill aims to rectify a long-standing issue in Goa's electoral representation.
According to the 2011 Census, the Scheduled Tribe population in Goa was recorded at 1,49,275, which is significantly greater than the Scheduled Caste population of 25,449.
While one seat in the 40-member Assembly is reserved for SCs, none had been designated for STs.
This Bill grants the Election Commission the authority to modify the Delimitation of Parliamentary and Assembly Constituencies Order, 2008, ensuring fair representation for ST communities based on updated demographic data.
Originally introduced in the Lok Sabha on August 5, 2024, this legislation had been pending for a full year.
The passage follows an earlier approval from the Union Cabinet this year and is anticipated to facilitate constitutional benefits and political inclusion for Goa’s tribal communities, including the Kunbi, Gawda, and Velip groups, which were included on the ST list in 2003.
Nevertheless, the session faced challenges as Opposition MPs from the INDIA Bloc persistently raised slogans demanding a structured discussion on the SIR of electoral rolls in Bihar.
This revision exercise, mandated by the Election Commission ahead of the state’s Assembly elections, has sparked controversy over alleged voter deletions and irregularities.
Opposition members chanted slogans like “SIR par charcha ho” and “Vote ki chori nahi chalegi”, necessitating multiple interventions from the Chair.
Following the Bill's passage, the proceedings were adjourned for the day by Sandhya Ray, who was in the Chair, as protests continued unabated.
The Monsoon Session remains overshadowed by procedural deadlock, with essential legislative business hanging in the balance amidst escalating political divisions.
Point of View
The passage of the Goa ST Reservation Bill reflects a necessary step toward rectifying historical electoral imbalances. While the protests highlight ongoing political tensions, the focus should remain on ensuring fair representation for marginalized communities and fostering inclusivity in the political landscape.
NationPress
05/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Goa ST Reservation Bill?
The Goa ST Reservation Bill aims to provide reservation for Scheduled Tribes in the Goa Legislative Assembly, correcting historical electoral imbalances.
Why is the SIR of electoral rolls significant?
The SIR of electoral rolls is significant as it raises concerns over voter deletions and irregularities ahead of the Assembly elections in Bihar.
What was the population of Scheduled Tribes in Goa according to the 2011 Census?
According to the 2011 Census, the Scheduled Tribe population in Goa was recorded at 1,49,275.
What are the implications of the Bill for Goa's tribal communities?
The Bill is expected to ensure political inclusion and constitutional benefits for Goa’s tribal communities, such as the Kunbi, Gawda, and Velip groups.
When was the Bill originally introduced?
The Bill was originally introduced in the Lok Sabha on August 5, 2024.
