CM Siddaramaiah assures nomadic community representatives that the state will explore modalities for 1% internal reservation under SC/ST quota to ensure fair inclusion and equality.
Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to ensuring social justice for all marginalized sections, including nomadic and semi-nomadic communities.
Addressing a delegation from the Alemari (Nomadic) Federation at Vidhana Soudha on Thursday, the Chief Minister said the government would examine the feasibility of providing 1% internal reservation within the Scheduled Castes (SC) category and take necessary action to implement it.
“Our government is committed to extending social justice to nomadic communities. We will explore how 1% reservation can be practically implemented. The intention is not to deprive any community of its rights but to ensure justice for all,” Siddaramaiah said.
Government’s Focus on Internal Reservation
The Chief Minister emphasized that the state government has already taken proactive measures under the SCSP/TSP (Scheduled Caste Sub Plan / Tribal Sub Plan) programs to empower weaker sections.
“We have made sincere efforts to implement internal reservations effectively. The government will give top priority to resolving any confusion arising from the recent changes,” he assured.
Alemari Community’s Demand for Fair Representation
The delegation, led by leaders of the Alemari Community Federation, submitted a memorandum urging the government to:
- Provide 1% exclusive internal reservation for nomadic communities as per Justice Nagamohan Das Commission’s recommendation;
- Establish a separate development corporation for nomadic communities;
- Announce a special financial package for their social and economic upliftment.
The Chief Minister received the memorandum and promised that the government would study the proposal and ensure that justice is done within the framework of social equality and constitutional provisions.
The meeting was attended by Minister H.C. Mahadevappa, Political Secretary to CM Naseer Ahmed, Chief Secretary Dr. Shalini Rajneesh, former Minister H. Anjaneya, and several nomadic community representatives from across the state.
Editorial View:
The demand for 1% internal reservation for nomadic communities signals a significant push for inclusive representation in Karnataka’s reservation policy. Siddaramaiah’s assurance underlines his government’s intent to balance social equity, political sensitivity, and constitutional compliance in addressing caste-based disparities.
