NCBC seeks clarity on Muslim OBC quota from Karnataka government

The commission's inquiry stems from concerns about the fair allocation of benefits under the OBC quota.

In an interview to The Indian Express, Hansraj Ahir, chairperson of the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC), emphasised the commission's non-political stance in seeking clarification from the Karnataka government regarding the Muslim Other Backward Classes (OBC) quota. A former Union minister, Ahir reiterated that the commission's sole concern is the protection and fair implementation of OBC rights.

He clarified that the commission's correspondence with the Karnataka government has been ongoing for the past 7 to 8 months, directed solely at the chief secretary and not to the political leadership. When questioned about the timing of raising the issue, Ahir emphasised the commission's focus on present-day data rather than dwelling on past decisions. He highlighted the need for clarity on how the entire Muslim community has been categorised as backward, stressing that the commission's concern lies with caste, not religion.

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The issue has sparked a political controversy during the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi accusing the Congress of undermining the rights of Dalits and OBCs to extend reservations to Muslims. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah dismissed these allegations as baseless.

Ahir pointed to the overrepresentation of Muslims in UG and PG medical courses admission data as one of the grounds for seeking clarification from the Karnataka government. The commission's inquiry stems from concerns about the fair allocation of benefits under the OBC quota.

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Regarding the Maratha reservation issue in Maharashtra, Ahir refrained from taking a stance, stating that the commission can only intervene upon receiving complaints and petitions. He emphasised the commission's focus on issues related to the central list of OBCs recommended by state governments.

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“We look at the issues of the central list of OBCs recommended by state governments. I can speak on that, but I do not have any reason to object to the current list of Maharashtra,” he said. OBC groups have expressed concerns that issuing Kunbi caste certificates to all Marathas will encroach on their quotas and impact their political representation.

Ahir declined to comment on the caste census, stating that it falls within the policy prerogative of the government.