Fri Mar 21 16:24:00 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka Passes Controversial Bill Granting 4% Reservation to Muslim Contractors

**Bengaluru, March 21, 2025** – The Karnataka Legislative Assembly and Council passed the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurements (Amendment) Bill, 2025, on Friday, sparking intense protests from the Opposition BJP and JD(S). The Bill introduces a 4% reservation for Muslim contractors in public works projects.

The passage of the Bill followed heated debates, with the Opposition arguing that the Constitution does not allow for religion-based reservations and citing a lack of data to justify the measure. BJP MLA C.T. Ravi referenced the views of B.R. Ambedkar and Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel against such reservations. He challenged the government to provide population data and evidence of backwardness to support the quota.

However, the Congress defended the Bill, stating that the reservation was based on socio-economic backwardness, not religion. Congress MLA B.K. Hariprasad emphasized the need to bring the Muslim community into the mainstream. Another Congress MLA, Ivan D’Souza, even suggested extending the benefit to other minority groups.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, citing a 2022 Human Development Index report, argued that Muslims in Karnataka face significant socio-economic disadvantages in health, education, and housing. He highlighted that Muslims constitute 15% of the state’s population and that ₹4,514 crore (approximately $550 million USD) has been allocated for minority welfare in the budget. He also referenced Supreme Court rulings acknowledging the community’s backwardness.

Following the Bill’s passage, the Opposition petitioned Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot to reject it. The protests in the Council included members tearing up copies of the Bill and disrupting proceedings. The Bill’s passage marks a significant development in Karnataka’s politics and is likely to face further legal challenges.

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