Karnataka Government Faces Backlash Over Minority Housing Quota Increase

Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar defends the state government's decision to increase minority housing quotas from 10% to 15%, amid BJP's allegations of divisive politics. Shivakumar cites the Sachar Committee Report, countering BJP's claims of the move being unconstitutional. The Cabinet approved the decision without drafting new rules.

In a significant political exchange, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar dismissed criticisms leveled by BJP leader Amit Malviya regarding the state's decision to raise minority reservations in housing schemes. The elevation from 10% to 15% has sparked a debate, with Malviya accusing the Congress government of pandering to its vote bank and labeling the action as 'blatantly illegal and unconstitutional.'

Addressing these accusations, Shivakumar accused the BJP of engaging in divisive politics. He asserted that the policy shift is grounded in the Sachar Committee Report, aiming to rectify previous implementation deficiencies in minority housing allocations. Shivakumar proclaimed, 'I am least bothered about any BJP leader's comments. They create hatred, while we aim to unite society.'

The Karnataka Cabinet officially approved this increase in the reservation quota, with Minister HK Patil confirming that no additional rules are required. Despite BJP contentions, the government reassured that the revised policy serves as a corrective measure rather than an unconstitutional act, addressing minorities including Christians, Jains, and Buddhists.

(With inputs from agencies.)