MP OBC Reservation Row Intensifies As High Court Maintains 14% Quota, BJP And Congress Trade Blame

Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh: After the high court upheld the 14% OBC reservation, political parties are blaming each other. The Congress alleges the BJP's lack of strong legal argument cost the OBC 27% reservation. In contrast, the BJP blames the Congress for insufficient research on OBC reservation before passing an ordinance in 2019, which led to their court loss.

MPCC President Jitu Patwari says the dispute concerns over 50% of the population in the state. The court rejected the petition due to the government's weak arguments and lack of data on the OBC's social and educational backwardness. Patwari urges the Congress to appeal to the Supreme Court and hold an assembly session to inform citizens of its OBC plans.

Congress leader Kamal Nath claims the OBC received reservation during his tenure as chief minister, and the BJP government showed little interest after coming to power, resulting in their court defeat. BJP State Unit President Hemant Khandelwal promises to grant the OBC a 27% quota, regardless of circumstances. He alleges the Congress raised the OBC reservation from 14% to 27% to attract voters in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

Khandelwal states the court permits surpassing the 50% reservation limit under exceptional circumstances, which the Congress failed to mention when raising the reservation. Khandelwal also asserts the BJP government recognized the OBC Welfare Board's constitutional status. The government will decide after consulting lawyers. Meanwhile, a 23-year-old pregnant woman died at a tribal hostel in Bhopal, with her family alleging foul play.