Implementation of 10 per cent reservation for economically backward upper castes in government jobs is likely to be a major issue in Madhya Pradesh in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Shri Rajput Karni Sena has demanded implementation of the quota in state on Gujarat pattern.
Chief Minister Kamal Nath has though assured Karni Sena to implement quota after the polls, however, other organizations are keeping their finger crossed as they believe that any increase above 50 per cent — a limit set by the Supreme Court — will be subject to judicial scrutiny. Reservation is provided to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes at the rate of 15 per cent, 7.5 per cent and 27 per cent, respectively, in central government posts and services.
Ashok Sharma, president, Rajpatrit Karmchari Adhikari Sangh
“Chief Minister Kamal Nath has assured that after general elections, 10 per cent reservations for economically backward classes will be granted. Even ‘Rani Sahiba’ – Amrita Singh (Rai) – has assured us during Holi get-together that she would ensure fulfillment of the demands after the elections.”
Sudhir Nayak, president, Mantralayeen Karamchari Sangh
“The Supreme Court had set the cap for reservations at 50 per cent. So it is not possible to increase the reservations beyond the set limit. It is elections time so all types of issues are being raised to generate controversy as quota beyond 50 percent would be subjected to judicial scrutiny. Hence, 10% reservation for economically weak in general category is not possible and it is nothing but making castles in the air.”
SL Suryavanshi, general secretary, AJJAKS
“The political parties are unnecessarily raising the issue even when they are aware it is not possible without judicial intervention. It is their tactic to take political mileage in the elections. At any cost, reservation beyond 50 per cent is not possible so it is useless to talk on it.”
JN Kansotia, IAS officer and AJJAKS patron
Central government has already made amendment in Constitution for increasing reservations limit, then why is state government not implementing. It is a matter of concern. However, it is still in court as High Court had stayed it in NEET PG issue.”
