New Delhi [India]: The Karnataka government’s decision to approve 4% reservation for Muslim contractors in public works contracts has triggered a political controversy, with BJP leaders criticizing the move as “unconstitutional” and accusing the ruling Congress party of appeasement politics.
Key Developments
✅ The Karnataka Cabinet recently amended the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurement (KTPP) Act to provide 4% reservation for Muslim contractors under Category-II B.
✅ This reservation applies to government tenders valued up to ₹1 crore across various departments, corporations, and institutions.
✅ The decision was announced during Karnataka’s Budget presentation by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on March 7.
Political Reactions
🗨️ Amit Malviya, BJP leader, criticized the move, claiming that the Congress government’s decisions favoring one religious group are “unconstitutional”. He further alleged that the Congress has become the “New Muslim League.”
🗨️ Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal also condemned the move, stating, “Some political parties do politics of appeasement. But PM Modi emphasizes gratification instead of appeasement.”
Government’s Stand
The Karnataka government maintains that this reservation is part of its broader commitment to ensuring equitable opportunities in public procurement, particularly for marginalized communities.
What’s Next?
📌 The amended KTPP Act is expected to be formally tabled in the ongoing Assembly session for approval, likely on Monday.
This development has reignited discussions around reservation policies, minority rights, and political strategies ahead of upcoming electoral cycles.