Karnataka Assembly Passes Muslim Quota Bill Amid Uproar; BJP Protests Intensify
The Karnataka Assembly on Friday witnessed intense protests as the Congress government passed a bill granting a 4% reservation for Muslims in government contracts. The opposition BJP strongly opposed the bill, calling it “unconstitutional” and vowing legal action.
The bill, introduced by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, aims to provide Muslim contractors with a 4% quota in public tenders, promoting economic opportunities and social justice for minorities. “This move aligns with our commitment to inclusive development and affirmative action,” stated Siddaramaiah.
The session turned chaotic as BJP leaders stormed the well of the House, chanting slogans against the ruling government. Amid the turmoil, BJP MLAs tore copies of the bill and threw them at Speaker UT Khader. BJP MLA Bharath Shetty defended the protest, alleging that the government was prioritizing the quota bill over discussions on the honey trap scandal. “Instead of addressing the scam, the Chief Minister pushed this bill forward,” he claimed.
The Assembly also saw heightened tensions over Cooperative Minister KN Rajanna’s revelations on the honey trap controversy. BJP leaders held up CDs, suggesting blackmail tactics were involved. The Congress government maintained that the bill was a step toward economic empowerment, dismissing the BJP’s allegations as politically motivated.
With the BJP gearing up for a legal challenge, the bill’s passage marks a significant political flashpoint in Karnataka’s legislative landscape.
