The National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) has verified that all Muslim sects in Karnataka are now part of the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category, as per the state government’s records. This inclusion is intended to provide these groups with reservations in state employment and educational sectors.
The state’s Muslim population is 12.92%, and they are all categorized under OBC II-B. Specifically, 17 Muslim communities fall under category-1, and 19 under category-2A, including groups like Nadaf, Pinjar, and Darvesh.
Protests and Political Statements
The NCBC has observed protests from backward and Dalit communities against discrimination by higher-caste Muslims. This has led to the marginalized Muslim communities aligning with the Pasmanda movement, which advocates for the disadvantaged Muslims.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the Congress party for categorizing Muslims as OBC for reservations, suggesting it was an attempt at religion-based quotas. At a rally, he claimed this action deprived the OBC community of reservations and spoke on the constitutional ban on religion-based reservations.
The NCBC had previously expressed concerns about this categorization, stating it could compromise social justice principles.
Inheritance Tax Controversy
PM Modi also commented on inheritance tax, referencing Sam Pitroda’s remarks about the tax system in the United States. He questioned whether people would allow their parents’ earnings to be taken away and criticized the Congress party for distancing itself from Pitroda’s comments, implying that their goal was to take away public funds.
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