Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah backs Rahul Gandhi on reservations, says BJP must push for 75% quota to prove social justice credentials

The Karnataka CM made the statement in a reaction to BJP attacks on Rahul Gandhi for suggesting that reservations will end when there is equality in society in India. The remarks also came amid silence from Rahul Gandhi and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on corruption allegations against the Karnataka CM for MUDA (Mysore Urban Development Authority) land allotments to his wife.

“The BJP leaders’ protest against Rahul Gandhi, falsely accusing him of making anti-reservation statements is like ‘butchers protesting against animal cruelty’. What moral authority do those who have historically opposed reservations and sought to change the Constitution have to stage such protests?” Siddaramaiah said in a statement Thursday.

“It’s no surprise that BJP leaders, who have always held anti-reservation sentiments, lack the understanding or wisdom to interpret Rahul Gandhi’s statement. The primary objective of reservation is to ensure equal opportunities for all in education, employment, and access to resources. This isn’t just something Rahul Gandhi is saying – I stand by it too. How can this be construed as an anti-reservation statement?” he said.

“In Karnataka, the BJP opposed local body reservations, even filing a petition in the Supreme Court led by the late Justice Rama Jois. Across the country, the BJP has consistently protested against reservation policies,” Siddaramaiah stated.

“If BJP leaders and the Union Government are truly committed to social justice, they should immediately conduct a nationwide caste census. This is essential to determine whether reservation has truly reached the most marginalised sections of society,” he said.

“The Supreme Court recommended a caste-based socio-economic survey precisely to determine whether equal opportunities have been achieved. Our government in Karnataka has already undertaken this,” the CM said.

Meanwhile, the Karnataka CM, who is fighting a legal battle against a sanction granted by the Governor to three private individuals to file corruption cases against him, has suggested for the first time since the corruption allegations emerged in July that he would continue as the chief minister.

“When the post of chief minister is not vacant, this question does not arise. There is no doubt that I will continue as chief minister,” Siddaramaiah said.