Daijiworld Media Network- Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Mar 15: The Karnataka government's move to grant 4% reservation to Muslim contractors in government tenders has triggered a heated political debate, with the opposition accusing the ruling congress of appeasement politics.
The State Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, has approved amendments to the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurement (KTPP) Act, 1999, paving the way for Muslim contractors to secure government contracts up to Rs 1 cr under a 4% quota. Additionally, the contract limit for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) has been increased from Rs 1 cr to Rs 2 cr.
The proposal, which is expected to be tabled in the ongoing Budget session, follows minority leaders’ demands for a level playing field, similar to the benefits extended to SCs, STs, and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
Reacting sharply to the decision, union minister for food, public distribution, and consumer affairs, Pralhad Joshi, condemned the Congress-led government, branding the move "unconstitutional and purely vote-bank politics."
"The Congress government in Karnataka has abandoned its duty to protect all communities and is openly favouring one religion for electoral gains," Joshi posted on social media.
He further accused the Congress of financially mismanaging the state, claiming that such policies will hamper Karnataka’s economic development rather than promote inclusivity.
Echoing Joshi’s concerns, State BJP president B Y Vijayendra fiercely opposed the reservation policy, arguing that it discriminates against other marginalized communities.
“Does the Congress government believe that only Muslims are a minority? Why not support other disadvantaged groups like the Madivala and Savita communities?” Vijayendra questioned.
He also accused the government of not releasing development funds for MLAs, raising concerns about the actual implementation of the policy.
“No tenders have been issued yet, and no work has been allotted. Then what’s the point of reserving contracts based on religion?” he asked.
Despite mounting criticism, the Congress government has stood by its decision, arguing that economic inclusion is essential for ensuring equal opportunities across all sections of society.
The finance department has finalized the proposal, and the law and parliamentary affairs minister H K Patil has also signaled his approval. The Bill is expected to be introduced in the State Legislature soon, where it is likely to face strong resistance from the opposition.
With sharp divisions emerging between the ruling party and the opposition, the debate over religion-based reservations in government contracts is set to intensify in the coming days.