Karnataka Governor seeks clarifications on SC sub‑classification bill

Karnataka Governor returned SC sub‑quota Bill for clarifications; 6‑6‑5 split faces objections, while Hate Speech Bill remains pending amid political tensions

Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot has returned the Karnataka Scheduled Castes (Sub‑classification) Bill to the state government, requesting further clarifications. The Bill, passed during the Belagavi session, is seen as crucial for upcoming recruitment drives, and the delay in approval could impact government hiring processes.

Key Provisions
The legislation proposes splitting the existing 17% reservation for Scheduled Castes into three sub‑groups under a 6‑6‑5 formula for jobs and admissions in state‑run educational institutions. Group A, comprising Madigas and 15 allied castes, would receive 6%. Group B, including Holeyas and 18 allied castes, would also get 6%. Group C, covering Lambanis, Bhovis, Kormas, Korchas, and 59 communities identified as ‘most backward,’ would be allotted 5%.

Concerns Raised
The formula has drawn criticism from some SC (Left) leaders, including Chitradurga BJP MP Govind Karjol, who argue that it could complicate promotions and service‑related matters. Additionally, several of the 59 ‘most backward’ communities have expressed dissatisfaction at being grouped with Lambanis, Bhovis, Kormas, and Korchas, demanding a separate 1% quota to safeguard their representation.

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Other Bills Returned
The Governor has also sent back the Shree Chamundeshwari Kshetra Development Authority and Certain Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, which sought to appoint a Group‑A senior scale Muzrai department officer as secretary to temple authorities. Reports suggest opposition from some KAS officers to this proposal.

Political Context
Out of 22 Bills forwarded to Raj Bhavan, 19 have been cleared for gazette notification. The Karnataka Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill remains under consideration, facing opposition from BJP and JD(S). Together, the internal quota Bill and the pending Hate Speech Bill have emerged as new points of contention between the state government and the Opposition over reservation policy and civil liberties.

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