A day after the Union Cabinet approved a Constitution Amendment Bill to provide 10% reservation to economically backward sections in the general category, DMK president and Leader of the Opposition M.K. Stalin on Tuesday urged the AIADMK government to oppose the BJP-led Centre’s decision on behalf of Tamil Nadu. He insisted that a resolution be passed in the House against the move.
“The first and the loudest dissenting voice should come from Tamil Nadu, which has been successfully implementing 69% reservation [for OBCs, MBCs and SCs/STs]. A resolution against the Central government, which is intending to shake the pillars of social justice, must come from the Tamil Nadu Assembly, which has been a breeding ground for social justice on the path laid by Periyar [E.V. Ramasamy], Perarignar Anna and Karmaveerar Kamarajar,” Mr. Stalin said in the Assembly.
He contended that the Centre’s nod for 10% reservation for economically backward sections in the general category was “not only against the principles of social justice but would also destroy it”.
Claiming that the Centre’s decision “would not stand legal scrutiny”, Mr. Stalin pointed out that Articles 15 (4) and 16 (4) of the Constitution provided for reservation for only socially and educationally backward classes and not for economically weaker sections.
Minister’s response
In his response, Fisheries Minister D. Jayakumar said, “The decision of the Centre is only a policy decision as of now. If there is any official announcement, we will make our stand known.”
Meanwhile, Dravidar Kazhagam leader K. Veeramani said the proposal won’t stand legal scrutiny, while VCK leader Thol. Thirumavalavan said it was aimed at fooling upper caste people.
