Bengaluru, Mar 28 (UNI) The Karnataka cabinet has decided to conduct a fresh survey to collect empirical data on the distribution of reservation benefits among Scheduled Caste (SC) sub-castes, a move aimed at addressing long-standing demands for internal reservation.
The decision follows the submission of an interim report by the Justice HN Nagamohan Das Commission. The cabinet's move is being seen as a politically charged decision, coming at a time when the Congress government faces growing pressure from internal factions.
A significant challenge for the Congress government stems from within its own ranks. Influential SC sub-groups have been demanding the immediate implementation of internal reservation, arguing that dominant sub-castes have disproportionately benefited while smaller, marginalised groups remain neglected.
The ‘SC Left’ faction, in particular, has voiced strong opposition to further delays. With the survey expected to take at least two months, concerns have emerged that the government is using procedural tactics to stall action.
Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister HK Patil and Social Welfare Minister HC Mahadevappa have defended the decision, insisting that a fresh survey is necessary to avoid legal pitfalls.
"In Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Haryana, internal reservation decisions have been challenged in court. We want a foolproof process so that benefits reach the right people," Mahadevappa stated, attempting to allay concerns.
For Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, the internal reservation issue represents a high-stakes political gamble that could significantly impact his core voter base. While the government hopes the survey will provide legal backing for sub-classifications within the SC category, any miscalculation could alienate sections of the community, potentially creating internal rifts within the Congress party.
Earlier today, Justice Nagamohan Das reassured that the commission had undertaken a comprehensive two-month study before submitting the 104-page interim report. “This was not a rushed decision. The government did not ask us to submit an interim report; we did so voluntarily,” he stated.
However, political analysts warn that Congress must act decisively to prevent the opposition from capitalising on the issue. The internal reservation debate is set to dominate Karnataka’s political discourse in the coming months.
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