BJP to challenge Karnataka’s 4% Muslim quota in government contracts

A political storm has erupted in Karnataka following the state cabinet’s approval of an amendment to the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurements (KTPP) Act. The amendment earmarks 4% of government contracts—civil works up to ₹2 crore and goods/services up to ₹1 crore—for the Muslim community.

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The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has strongly opposed the move, declaring it unconstitutional and vowing to challenge it in court. The party announced plans to escalate its protest across multiple platforms, including the state legislature, public demonstrations, and parliamentary discussions.

BJP leaders have accused the Congress-led government of engaging in appeasement politics. Party representatives allege that the decision was influenced by senior Congress figures and claim it threatens national integrity. Karnataka BJP President BY Vijayendra reiterated that while the party is not against Muslims, it opposes what it describes as Congress’s selective appeasement policies.

The BJP has also dismissed Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar’s challenge to appoint Muslims to key political positions, pointing to past appointments of prominent Muslim leaders by the party at national levels. The opposition’s stance sets the stage for a prolonged political battle, as the issue is expected to spark intense debate within the state and beyond.

With legal action imminent and political tensions rising, the amendment faces significant hurdles before implementation.