The National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) has raised concerns over the Karnataka government's decision to include the entire Muslim community in the OBC category, stating that it is unjust to the existing OBC communities.
NCBC Chairman Hansraj Gangaram Ahir criticised the categorization of the Muslim community in Karnataka under the OBC quota, highlighting that reservation in education and jobs in the state is divided into several categories.
He emphasised that while Muslims are considered a religious minority in Karnataka, they are now categorised as OBCs, with 36 Muslim castes receiving reservations under two OBC categories.
Ahir expressed surprise over the blanket 4% reservation provided to Muslims under Category IIB, along with additional reservations under Category I and Category II(A). He pointed out that Muslims in Karnataka also have the opportunity to contest 32% of the seats reserved for OBCs in local body elections.
The NCBC Chairman highlighted that the Muslim population in Karnataka is 12.92%, and all Muslims in the state benefit from OBC reservations. He noted that the Congress government issued a notification in 2002, granting reservation in education and employment to Muslims under Article 15(4) and 16(4).
Despite seeking clarification from the Karnataka government regarding the basis of this reservation, Ahir stated that they have not received a satisfactory response. He outlined the reservation structure in Karnataka, indicating the allocation of quotas for various categories, including OBCs, SCs, and STs.
Ahir criticised the contradictory stance of the Karnataka government, which categorises Muslims as OBCs while claiming that they are neither caste or religion. He emphasised the need for transparency and clarity in reservation policies to ensure fairness and justice for all communities.
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