Karnataka Government Stands Firm on 4% Muslim Quota in Tenders Amid Criticism
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Synopsis
The Karnataka government, led by the Congress party, is committed to implementing a 4% quota for Muslims in government tenders despite criticism from the BJP. Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar emphasized that this reservation is also for other minority groups and is not infringing upon anyone's rights.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka's 4% quota for Muslims in government tenders.
- Shift focus on minority rights, including Christians and Sikhs.
- Amendments to KTPP Act planned for ongoing budget session.
- Deputy CM addresses allegations of MLAs coercing officials.
- Preparation underway for BBMP elections.
Bengaluru, March 16 (NationPress) Facing criticism from the BJP for instituting a 4 percent quota for Muslims in government contracts, the ruling Congress party in Karnataka has reaffirmed its commitment to this reservation.
During a press conference in Bengaluru on Saturday, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar addressed various inquiries, signaling strong support for the government's initiative. Prior reports suggested that the cabinet had approved the measure following an announcement from CM Siddaramaiah during the budget presentation.
In response to questions about the decision to allocate a 4 percent reservation for Muslims in government tenders, he clarified, "Approval has been granted solely for contracts not exceeding Rs 2 crore. No projects surpassing this limit will fall under this reservation. We are not infringing on anyone’s rights."
"Don’t they also deserve a means of livelihood?" Shivakumar posed.
He further emphasized, "Who claims that 4 percent reservation is exclusively for Muslims? The government aims to extend it to minorities and marginalized communities, which encompass Christians, Jains, Parsis, Sikhs, and others. Previously, we modified the law to incorporate contract reservations for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes," stated Shivakumar.
Addressing the BJP's assertion that these contract reservations serve as a vote-bank tactic, he responded, "They must be perpetually preoccupied with us. That only strengthens our resolve."
The government led by CM Siddaramaiah is prepared to propose an amendment to the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurements (KTPP) Act, 1999, and intends to present the bill during the ongoing budget session, sources revealed.
When questioned about allegations that certain MLAs are coercing officials regarding garbage management contracts, Shivakumar remarked, "Go and observe where the garbage accumulates, and you’ll comprehend the situation."
Regarding the readiness for the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) elections, Shivakumar confidently asserted, "Absolutely, we are prepared. How long can we postpone it?"
"A meeting has been arranged on Saturday for candidates participating in the BBMP elections. Subsequently, a gathering will be held with representatives from all parties. Some unauthorized suggestions have already been made concerning the BBMP elections, but we will now gather formal feedback," he added.
In response to questions about attending a meeting opposing constituency delimitation, he noted, "Both the Chief Minister and I received invitations from Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin. The high command and the Chief Minister instructed us to participate in the meeting in Tamil Nadu on March 22."
"Due to the Chief Minister's knee pain, doctors have advised against travel, so he will not be attending. On behalf of the party and the government, I will represent us at the meeting. I will discuss the party’s position with the high command and communicate it," he stated.
"A significant discourse is taking place nationwide. We are not willing to relinquish our rights or numbers. On March 18, we will deliberate on our party’s position and announce our stance," he concluded.
