Deve Gowda government implemented Muslim quota in Karnataka.
The government of HD Deve Gowda’s Janata Dal implemented reservation for Muslims under the OBC quota. This initiative aimed to provide socio-economic opportunities to the Muslim community in Karnataka. Records from that period substantiate the implementation of this policy, reflecting the government’s commitment to social justice and inclusion.
- In 1995, Deve Gowda’s government became the first to implement the OBC quota for Muslims.
- In 1994, the Congress government announced a similar quota but failed to implement it.
- Presently, Deve Gowda’s JD(S) is allied with the BJP, marking a significant political shift since the 1990s.
In a recent denouncement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the Congress-led Karnataka government’s decision to extend OBC status to the Muslim community, highlighting that this reservation was originally initiated in 1995 by HD Deve Gowda’s Janata Dal. Notably, Deve Gowda’s JD(S) is currently aligned with the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). PM Modi labeled Congress as the “biggest enemy of the OBCs,” accusing them of granting religious-based reservation in Karnataka, which he deemed detrimental to the OBC community.
In a swift response, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah rebutted the assertion, branding the claim that the Congress had “transferred” reservation from backward classes to Muslims as a “blatant lie.” He refuted the accusation, asserting that the decision to include Muslims in the OBC list was aimed at equitable social representation. Siddaramaiah’s retort underscores the ongoing debate surrounding reservation policies and emphasizes the state government’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and addressing the socio-economic needs of all communities.
Siddaramaiah further questioned former Prime Minister Deve Gowda’s stance on quotas for Muslims, probing whether he would uphold his initial support or yield to Narendra Modi’s influence. “Is Deve Gowda, who once boasted of implementing reservation for Muslims, still committed to his stand? Or will they surrender to Narendra Modi and change their previous stand? He should make it clear to the people of the state,” Siddaramaiah emphasized. His inquiry underscores the political dynamics at play and seeks clarity on Deve Gowda’s position regarding the contentious issue of reservations for the Muslim community in Karnataka.
History of OBC Reservation in Karnataka:
The journey of OBC reservation in Karnataka is a tapestry woven with political maneuvers, legal challenges, and societal aspirations. It reflects the complexities of governance, social justice, and the interplay between various communities within the state.
Deve Gowda Government’s Initiative:
In 1995, during the tenure of the Deve Gowda government, a significant milestone was achieved with the implementation of reservation for Muslims in Karnataka under a distinct classification, 2B, within the OBC quota. This decision was rooted in the recommendations of the Chinnappa Reddy Commission Report, which advocated for the grouping of Muslims under Category 2 of the OBC list.
Reddy Commission’s Recommendations:
The Chinnappa Reddy Commission’s recommendations were pivotal in shaping Karnataka’s reservation policies. It proposed grouping Muslims within Category 2 of the OBC list, recognizing the socio-economic backwardness of the community and advocating for affirmative action to address their concerns.
Congress Government’s Attempt:
Prior to the Deve Gowda government’s implementation, the Veerappa Moily-led Congress government made strides towards OBC reservation. In April 1994, through official orders, the government announced a six per cent reservation in Category 2B, identified as “More Backward,” for Muslims, Buddhists, and Scheduled Caste converts to Christianity. This proactive step aimed to provide equitable opportunities to marginalized communities.
Legal Challenges and Political Turmoil:
However, the reservation faced legal hurdles. The Supreme Court’s interim order in September 1994 directed the Karnataka government to cap overall reservations at 50 per cent, inclusive of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and OBCs. This directive posed a challenge to the Congress government’s reservation plan, leading to a political crisis and the eventual collapse of the government in December 1994, before the order could be fully implemented.
Impact and Societal Dynamics:
The events surrounding OBC reservation in Karnataka reflect the intricate interplay between politics, law, and societal dynamics. They underscore the challenges inherent in formulating and implementing affirmative action policies aimed at fostering inclusivity and addressing historical injustices.
Debate and Discourse:
The history of OBC reservation in Karnataka continues to fuel debates and discussions. It prompts reflection on the role of affirmative action in addressing socio-economic disparities and ensuring equal opportunities for all segments of society. The legal battles and political maneuverings underscore the complexities involved in translating policy intentions into tangible outcomes on the ground.
Contemporary Relevance:
Even today, the legacy of OBC reservation in Karnataka reverberates in the state’s political landscape. The recent discourse surrounding the extension of reservation to Muslims and the ensuing political rhetoric exemplify the enduring relevance of affirmative action policies in shaping societal narratives and political agendas.
Conclusion:
The history of OBC reservation in Karnataka is a saga marked by triumphs and challenges, progress and setbacks. It reflects the state’s commitment to social justice and inclusivity, while also highlighting the intricacies of governance and the complexities of navigating legal and political landscapes. As Karnataka continues its journey towards a more equitable society, the lessons gleaned from its history of OBC reservation serve as guiding beacons for future endeavors in pursuit of justice and equality for all.
HD Deve Gowda assumed office as Chief Minister on December 11, 1994. Subsequently, on February 14, 1995, he executed the previous government’s quota decision with modifications in line with the Supreme Court’s interim verdict. SCs converted to Christianity and Buddhism, initially placed in Category 2B, were reassigned to Categories 1 and 2A respectively. Concurrently, under the revised 2B quota, four percent of seats in educational institutions and state government positions were earmarked for Muslims. This implementation marked a significant step towards ensuring equitable representation and opportunities for marginalized communities in Karnataka.