Intense Row Erupts in Rajya Sabha Over Karnataka's Reservation Policy

A heated argument unfolded in Rajya Sabha over Karnataka's law granting 4% reservations to minorities in contracts. Union Minister JP Nadda criticized Congress, alleging constitutional betrayal, while Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge defended the party's commitment to constitutional unity. Accusations of misrepresentation and calls for authentication dominated the debate.

The Rajya Sabha witnessed a fiery debate on Monday concerning Karnataka's latest legal move to grant 4% reservations to minorities in public contracts. The contentious law prompted Union Minister JP Nadda to call for its withdrawal, challenging Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge for answers.

During a parliamentary session, Nadda criticized Congress, alleging that despite their self-proclaimed role as "protectors of the Constitution," they have been undermining it. Citing Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Nadda argued that such reservations are unconstitutional, evoking strong objections from Opposition members.

Amid the uproar, Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankar demanded Nadda substantiate his claims. Nadda pursued his stance, emphasizing the seriousness of Karnataka's legislation and accusing Congress leaders of threatening constitutional change, a point fiercely refuted by Congress's Kharge, who invoked the "Bharat Jodo Yatra" as proof of their constitutional fidelity.

Tensions escalated with Congress accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of misinformation. Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar typified this as a deliberate attempt by the BJP to mislead the public, while rebutting claims attributed to him by party foes.

(With inputs from agencies.)