Former MP Ugrappa Issues Ultimatum Over Karnataka's Enhanced Reservation
In a strongly worded statement from Belagavi, former Member of Parliament VS Ugrappa has leveled serious allegations against successive state governments in Karnataka, accusing them of failing to secure constitutional protection for the enhanced 56% reservation for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC). The veteran politician has issued a clear warning of intensified protests if immediate action is not taken.
Demand for All-Party Delegation to Centre
Speaking to media representatives on Tuesday, Ugrappa demanded that the current state government lead an all-party delegation to the central government in New Delhi. The specific purpose of this delegation would be to include the revised reservation percentage in the protective 9th Schedule of the Indian Constitution. "We are tired of empty promises and administrative delays," Ugrappa declared, emphasizing the urgency of the matter.
He set a firm deadline, stating that if such a delegation is not sent by the month of June, a day-and-night statewide agitation would be launched. This protest, he warned, would involve various communities and organizations across Karnataka to pressure the government into action.
Historical Context and Government Inaction
Ugrappa provided crucial historical context for his demands. He highlighted that during the tenure of former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai, official orders were issued to increase the state's reservation quota from 50% to 56%. This decision was based on a detailed study and analysis, which led to specific increases: Scheduled Caste reservation rose to 17% and Scheduled Tribes reservation to 7%.
"However, successive governments have completely failed to give this enhancement the constitutional recognition it requires," Ugrappa alleged. He pointed to the example of Tamil Nadu, where the state government successfully increased reservation from 50% to 69%, securing its place in the 9th Schedule.
Criticism of Current Leadership
The former MP did not spare the current administration led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who came to power in 2023. Ugrappa claimed that Siddaramaiah has been requested "many times" to take a delegation to the Centre regarding the reservation increase but has consistently ignored these appeals.
"The chief minister is following a deliberate policy of delay in this crucial matter of social justice," Ugrappa stated bluntly. He expressed deep frustration with what he perceives as political negligence toward the welfare of backward communities.
Warning of "Violent Struggle" and Constitutional Principles
In perhaps his most severe warning, Ugrappa stated, "If the central government acts in a way that threatens social justice, we will respond with violent struggle." This stark language underscores the high stakes and emotional intensity surrounding the reservation issue in Karnataka.
He further elaborated on the constitutional and procedural aspects, noting that reservation is constitutionally binding. Ugrappa clarified that there is no objection to including eligible communities like Kuruba, Golla, and Koli Samaj in the ST category, provided it follows proper procedure.
"It is our hope that reservation should be implemented in a manner that provides genuine justice to the backward classes of the state," he said. "Reservations should be provided to these communities only after a thorough genealogical study of each respective community to ensure accuracy and fairness."
The former MP's statements have ignited fresh debate over Karnataka's reservation policy, with community leaders and political observers watching closely to see if the government will heed his June deadline or face the promised wave of protests.
