Panel to recommend internal reservation for Scheduled Castes

Bengaluru: The Justice HN Nagmohan Das Commission is preparing to submit its interim report within the next two weeks. This report will help the government decide on internal reservation for Scheduled Castes (SCs). The report is expected to include important data and recommendations. These will guide the government in reorganizing the 17% reservation currently given to 101 SC communities. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah held a meeting with cabinet ministers from SC communities to discuss the upcoming report. Social Welfare Minister HC Mahadevappa stated that the government is committed to implementing internal reservation. The commission was formed following a Supreme Court directive and aims to provide suitable recommendations. During this period, the state has paused new recruitments, promotions, and appointments in government departments while waiting for the report. Home Minister G Parameshwara mentioned that the cabinet has discussed the issue several times. The demand for internal quotas has been a challenging topic for over 20 years. Some communities feel that certain groups have benefited more from the current reservation system. Previous attempts to resolve this issue, such as the AJ Sadashiva Commission's recommendations in 2012, faced opposition. The previous BJP government also attempted to create an internal reservation matrix last year, which faced backlash from Dalit factions. Food and Civil Supplies Minister KH Muniyappa emphasized that there is no disagreement within the Siddaramaiah cabinet regarding internal reservations. As the state waits for the commission's interim report, it seems ready to address this longstanding issue.