Maharashtra Government Formally Cancels Circular on Muslim Quota Certificates After 11-Year Delay
In a significant administrative move, the Mahayuti government in Maharashtra has officially cancelled a circular that outlined the process for issuing caste validity certificates for the 5% Muslim quota in government jobs and education. This action comes a full eleven years after the BJP-Sena government, led by Devendra Fadnavis, initially scrapped the reservation policy back in 2015.
Background of the 5% Muslim Quota
The 5% minority quota was first introduced by the Congress-NCP government in June 2014 through an ordinance. However, this ordinance lapsed by December 2014 because it was not converted into a formal Act under the subsequent BJP-Sena administration led by Devendra Fadnavis. Additionally, a high court petition resulted in a stay on the quota for government jobs, further complicating its implementation.
Delayed Administrative Cleanup
In March 2015, the Fadnavis government issued an order to officially cancel the ordinance, effectively ending the Muslim quota. Despite this, a related circular from the social justice department, which detailed the procedure for issuing caste validity certificates for minorities, was overlooked and remained in place. This circular has now been cancelled by the current Mahayuti government, marking the final step in a long-delayed process.
Officials revealed that this administrative cleanup was completed after a query was raised during the last state assembly session, highlighting the oversight. "This is just a formality," stated an official, emphasizing that the cancellation aligns with the earlier decision to scrap the quota.
Implications and Context
The cancellation of the circular underscores the ongoing complexities in Maharashtra's reservation policies and administrative procedures. Key points include:
- The original quota was introduced briefly in 2014 but faced legal and political hurdles.
- The BJP-Sena government's 2015 cancellation left a procedural gap that has only now been addressed.
- This move formalizes the end of the Muslim quota, reflecting the state's current political stance on minority reservations.
This development is part of broader discussions on reservation policies in India, where such quotas often spark debate over social justice and administrative efficiency. The Mahayuti government's action closes a chapter that began over a decade ago, ensuring that all related documents are consistent with the scrapped policy.
