Amid claims of marginalisation, Muslim leaders urge reservation for fair access in public tenders
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI – In Karnataka, discussions on a potential reservation for Muslim contractors in public tenders have recently sparked debate. Despite denials from the government, many in the state’s Muslim community argue for policies that would better support underprivileged groups.
Naseer Ahmed, a Member of the Legislative Council (MLC) and close advisor to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, is advocating for a 4% reservation for Muslims in government tenders. He reportedly proposed a draft law to formalise this quota following his letter to the chief minister, urging a step towards equitable representation for Muslims in the state’s public works sector.
This call for reservation, however, was met with opposition, and the Chief Minister’s Office issued a statement denying any such policy. “Reports have been published in some media that a proposal to give reservation to Muslims in jobs is before the government,” the statement said. It added, “Muslim reservation has been demanded, but there is no proposal before the government in this regard.”
Presently, Karnataka reserves 43% of government contracts for various groups, including 24% for SC/ST contractors and 19% for OBC categories. The addition of a Muslim quota, under the proposed Category-2B, would raise this figure to 47%.
Muslim leaders argue that Karnataka’s existing reservation policies do not address the unique challenges facing the state’s Muslim community, which they say remains disproportionately disadvantaged in economic opportunities. “The Muslim community is among the most economically deprived in Karnataka,” said Ahmed. “A reservation quota in public tenders would help address this historic inequality and give fair access to government resources.”
Criticism and Political Tension
Opposition leaders, however, have criticised the proposal. R. Ashoka, Leader of the Opposition, accused the government of attempting to mislead the public, citing that Ahmed and other prominent Muslim leaders had submitted a formal request for the quota on August 24. “Despite letters and discussions, the chief minister is claiming there is no proposal for Muslim reservation in contracts,” Ashoka stated, alleging a lack of transparency.
Many Muslim community members see these calls for inclusion as essential to breaking cycles of poverty. “Muslims have historically been denied adequate opportunities,” said a local business owner. “A reserved quota in public tenders would be a meaningful change to foster community progress.”
Broader Implications
While the Karnataka government has denied plans for a Muslim quota, the debate raises questions on whether current policies effectively support the needs of Karnataka’s diverse communities. Observers note that the proposed 4% tender quota aligns with similar caste-based provisions aimed at fair access. Advocates argue that an inclusive policy for Muslims is crucial for balanced socio-economic development, especially in states like Karnataka where large Muslim populations contribute to the state’s cultural and economic fabric.
In neighbouring Telangana, the government recently introduced a caste census to better allocate welfare resources. Advocates in Karnataka highlight this as a positive model for addressing social disparities, urging the state government to consider similar steps to support underrepresented communities.
As discussions continue, Karnataka’s Muslim leaders maintain that equitable policies, including potential quotas, would benefit not just the Muslim community but also the broader state economy.
