The National Commission for Backward Classes has raised objections citing religious and constitutional concerns.
Mohammad Alamullah | Clarion India
BENGALURU — The Karnataka government has included Muslims in the state’s Other Backward Classes (OBC) list, granting them access to reservation benefits in jobs and educational institutions. However, the move has stirred controversy, with the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) opposing the decision on grounds of religious classification and constitutional principles.
NCBC President Hansraj Ganga Ram Ahir expressed reservations about the Karnataka government’s decision, stating, “All people of Muslim faith in Karnataka have been included in the OBC state list for reservation in jobs and admission to educational institutions under the control of the Karnataka government.” Ahir highlighted concerns raised by the Backward Classes Commission regarding the categorisation of Muslims as OBCs, arguing that religion should not be a criterion for reservation.
According to information provided by the Backward Classes Commission through a press release, the Karnataka government’s decision to include Muslims in the OBC list was based on state statistics indicating the representation of Muslims across various castes and communities within Karnataka. Under Category II-B, all Muslims in the state have been classified as OBCs, according to the commission.
The NCBC’s objection stems from the classification of Muslims based on religious affiliation, which contravenes the principle of secularism enshrined in the Indian Constitution. Ahir emphasised that the Karnataka government’s Backward Classes Welfare Department has clarified in writing to the NCBC that classes such as Muslims and Christians are neither castes nor religions, implying that the inclusion of Muslims in the OBC list is based on religious grounds rather than social backwardness.
Furthermore, Ahir pointed out that Muslims constitute a religious minority in Karnataka, comprising approximately 12.92% of the state’s population. Despite being categorised as a minority, Muslims are being classified as OBCs for reservation, a move that raises questions about the rationale behind the decision and its implications for minority rights and representation.
The controversy surrounding the inclusion of Muslims in the OBC reservation list highlights a broader debate about affirmative action and social justice in India. While reservation policies are intended to address historical injustices and uplift marginalised communities, the religious classification of Muslims in this context raises concerns.
As stakeholders continue to engage in dialogue and deliberation on this issue, the Karnataka government’s decision remains subject to scrutiny and debate, reflecting the complex dynamics of identity, representation, and governance in contemporary India.
