BJP Opposes Karnataka’s 4% Muslim Quota in Tenders
The Karnataka government’s move to provide a 4% reservation for Muslims in government contracts has sparked intense political backlash, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) declaring it will not allow the implementation of what it calls an unconstitutional and religion-based quota.
Karnataka Announces 4% Reservation for Muslims
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s government recently approved a proposal that reserves 4% of government tenders and procurement contracts for Muslims categorized under 2B of the Other Backward Classes. The reservation applies to public works contracts worth up to ₹2 crore and to procurement of goods and services under ₹1 crore. This policy was formalized through an amendment to the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurement (KTPP) Act.
BJP Terms the Move Unconstitutional
The BJP has responded with strong resistance, calling the decision a political gimmick aimed at appeasement. Party leaders have vowed to challenge the implementation both in the courts and through public protests. Tejasvi Surya, BJP MP, called it an attack on constitutional values and assured that the party would fight the move legally and politically.
Assembly Sees Uproar Over the Decision
The decision led to chaos in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, with BJP MLAs tearing and throwing copies of the amended law. Accusing the Congress government of indulging in “sarkari jihad,” the BJP demanded immediate withdrawal of the policy and staged walkouts and protests.
Congress Defends the Policy
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar defended the policy, saying it is aimed at empowering backward communities, including minorities. He stated that the Congress is committed to inclusive governance and questioned the BJP’s commitment to diversity, suggesting that the party should begin by nominating minorities to legislative and parliamentary positions.
Legal Challenge Likely
With the BJP indicating it will take the matter to court, a legal battle over the constitutionality of religion-based reservations in public procurement appears imminent. The debate over whether affirmative action based on religious identity violates the Constitution or promotes social equity is now center stage in Karnataka’s political landscape.
As the state gears up for elections in the coming months, the controversy is expected to fuel a broader political debate on minority rights, secularism, and the limits of state intervention in public contracting.
