Govt has no objection to Panchamasali community's demand for quota: Siddaramaiah
Vijayapura: Clarifying that the government has no objections to the Panchamasali community's demand for reservation under Category 2A, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said that the agitation must remain lawful and orderly.
Speaking to reporters in Vijayapura, Siddaramaiah said the government cannot remain a silent spectator if people take the law into their own hands and disrupt public order.
Addressing BJP’s allegations that the police resorted to stone-pelting during the Panchamasali community’s march to Suvarna Soudha, the Chief Minister denied the claims.
“We have photos showing the protesters breaking barricades and throwing stones. If protesters did not throw stones, how did over 20 police personnel sustain injuries? Did the police injure themselves? I have evidence to back my claims,” he said.
Siddaramaiah questioned the BJP’s newfound support for the agitation, pointing out that the party did not support such protests during its tenure. He criticized the BJP for canceling the 4 percent reservation for Muslims and reallocating it as 2 percent each to Vokkaligas (3A) and Lingayats (3B). He also highlighted a case filed by a Muslim petitioner, Rasool, in court, during which the BJP government assured that no changes would be made to the reservation policy.
When asked about the future of the reservation demand, Siddaramaiah suggested that the Panchamasali community approach the Permanent Backward Classes Commission. He referred to a report by Jayaprakash Hegde, the commission’s chairman during the BJP government, which recommended retaining the current classification of 2A and 2B without any new additions.
Reacting to statements made by Jayamruthyunjaya Swamiji, accusing him of being heartless, the Chief Minister said, “Let the people decide on such remarks.”
Siddaramaiah emphasized that everyone is equal before the law. “Whether it’s me, a swamiji, or anyone else, the law applies equally to all. Article 14 of the Constitution ensures equality before the law and equal protection of the law for everyone,” he stated.
Responding to opposition from communities already under Category 2A to the inclusion of the Panchamasali community, the Chief Minister said everyone has the freedom to express their opinions, including the swamijis. “Ultimately, decisions will be made in accordance with the Constitution,” he added.
Siddaramaiah reiterated that the government had sent three ministers, including Mahadevappa, to engage with the protesters and maintain peace. He noted that despite prior assurances from the protestors to conduct a peaceful tractor march, they attempted to take the law into their hands, prompting intervention by the authorities.
