Muslim quota is progressive and just

The parliament saw heated arguments over the constitution change jibe with the bjp citing the karnataka government’s decision to give 4% reservation in state contract awards and 2% in procurement by the state government to Muslims. The issue has been under relentless criticism by the bjp and its coalition partners calling it violation of the constitution and another example of appeasement politics by the congress While the constitution specifically mandates reservations for the SC ST and socially and educationally backward classes the identification of such classes is a political choice. That Muslims form one of the most backward class both socially and educationally is evident from the sachar committee report as well as their representation in the universities. Moreover the constitutional guard is for reservation in jobs and educational institutions. Quota in contracts and procurement is only economic empowerment and inclusion tools. The union government has already diluted the reservation guard by introducing the 10% economic backward quota which also broke the 50% quota barrier. We know that many economic and financial welfare measures mandate SC ST share well above their population ratio. These are progressive policies which strengthen social cohesion and help in making a more inclusive economic environment. Economic justice is a cornerstone of our constitution. Such policies are welcome and need to be adopted by all states and the union as well.