The question of reservation for Muslims has become a polarizing issue in Telangana, especially in the context of the upcoming elections. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has fiercely opposed reservation for Muslims, claiming that it is unconstitutional and based on religion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has declared that reservation for Muslims at the expense of Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) will never happen during his lifetime.
On the other hand, the ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) has pledged to increase the reservation quota for Muslims from 4% to 12%, arguing that it is necessary to address the socio-economic backwardness of the Muslim community. The TRS has constituted a Commission of Inquiry to study the socio-economic conditions of Muslims and gather evidence to support its case for increased reservation.
The issue of reservation for Muslims is complex and has been debated for many years. Those who oppose such reservation contend that it is based on religion and therefore violative of the Constitution. However, those who support reservation for Muslims argue that it is justified on the grounds of backwardness, just like reservations for other marginalized communities.
The issue is currently before the Supreme Court, and it remains to be seen how the apex court will rule on the matter. Until then, it is imperative that political parties exercise restraint in their comments and avoid polarizing statements that could exacerbate communal tensions.
