Karnataka Cabinet Approves 4% Muslim Quota in Tenders; BJP Up in Arms

The Karnataka Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, has greenlit a 4% reservation for Muslims in government tenders up to Rs 1 crore, alongside oppressed and backward classes.

The decision, confirmed by sources, paves the way for an amendment to the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurement (KTPP) Act, 1999, to be tabled in the ongoing Budget Session. The move follows demands from minority leaders for parity with SC, ST, and OBC contractors, whose tender limit has now been raised from Rs 1 crore to Rs 2 crore.

The Finance Department has drafted the blueprint, with Law Minister H.K. Patil endorsing the change. The Siddaramaiah government views it as a step toward inclusive economic empowerment, aligning with its Ahinda (minorities, backward classes, and Dalits) agenda. However, the proposal has ignited fierce opposition from the BJP, which labels it “peak appeasement politics” and a violation of constitutional principles.

State BJP President B.Y. Vijayendra slammed the move, questioning its timing amid stalled tenders and alleging neglect of other marginalized groups like Madivala and Savita communities. “Does Congress think only Muslims are minorities?” he charged, urging broader support for all disadvantaged groups. He argued that religion-based reservations in education, employment, and now contracts undermine equity, warning that “people will teach them a lesson.”