Karnataka Cabinet reorganised SC sub-groups into three, granting 6% each to Left and Right-Hand castes.
A moment when beneficiaries congratulated the Chief Minister following the Cabinet’s decision on internal reservation. (Photo Caption)
Bengaluru
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday informed the Assembly that the Cabinet has accepted Justice H.N. Nagamohan Das Commission’s report on internal reservation among Scheduled Castes, but with modifications to ensure “equality and fairness.”
The Cabinet has reorganised the Commission’s proposed five categories into three groups—A, B, and C. Group A (Left-Hand castes) and Group B (Right-Hand castes) will each receive 6% internal reservation, while Group C will get 5%. The CM said this ensures equitable access to education, jobs, and opportunities for all 101 SC communities, in line with Supreme Court guidelines.
The government has also decided to withdraw cases filed against internal reservation activists and to provide one-time age relaxation in recruitments once the order is issued. Recruitment processes, he assured, would begin immediately.
Siddaramaiah added that six per cent reservation will be distributed equally among Adi Karnataka, Adi Andhra, and Adi Dravida groups, while the ‘Touchables’ and 59 other identified castes will be combined to receive 5%.
The CM also announced the formation of a Permanent SC Commission to periodically study intra-caste dynamics and recommend future adjustments. He said the policy will be reviewed after the next national census.
“This decision delivers justice to decades of struggle for internal reservation. Karnataka has once again shown leadership in matters of social justice,” Siddaramaiah told the House.
Opposition BJP demanded a discussion on the Cabinet decision but was denied by the Speaker, prompting a walkout.
