Andhra sets the ball rolling on Muslim job quotas: 5% ordered

In a significant policy initiative, the Andhra Pradesh government today issued an order providing for five per cent reservation for Muslims ...

In a significant policy initiative, the Andhra Pradesh government today issued an order providing for five per cent reservation for Muslims in government jobs and admissions in educational institutions.

The order provides for inclusion of Muslims in backward classes.

Currently, as per the Supreme Court ruling in the Mandal case, only certain sections of Muslims classified as ‘‘socially and economically backward classes’’ get the benefit of reservation.

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The decision is in tune with the new Congress government’s promise to extend reservation for the Muslim community in government jobs and educational institutions.

The order—which is open to legal challenge—was issued after a comprehensive report prepared by the Commissionerate of Minorities Welfare which conducted a study on the living conditions, occupations and educational status of the Muslim community in the state. The government had earlier indicated that it would formulate a legislation on reservation for Muslims. But it has been decided to issue a government order in view of the approaching admissions in professional medical and engineering colleges, state Minorities Welfare Minister Fareeduddin said.

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