Mon Mar 09 15:13:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Internal Reservation Impasse Threatens Karnataka Government as Dalit Groups Demand Action

The Story:

In Bengaluru, India, the Committee for Internal Reservation is escalating pressure on the Karnataka government, accusing Social Welfare Minister H.C. Mahadevappa of obstructing internal reservation for Scheduled Castes (SCs). The committee announced a rally on March 12, 2026, to protest the perceived inaction. Activists are threatening an indefinite dharna if the Cabinet fails to provide a solution by that date. Informal discussions are reportedly underway among leaders, Cabinet Ministers, and senior bureaucrats from various Dalit sub-groups to determine how to sub-classify within the existing 15% reservation quota for SCs. Proposals are also being considered to potentially allocate a quota for 59 nomadic communities currently grouped with “touchable” communities.

Key Points:

  • The Committee for Internal Reservation accuses Social Welfare Minister H.C. Mahadevappa of blocking internal reservation for SCs.
  • A rally is planned for March 12, 2026, to protest the government’s inaction.
  • Activists threaten an indefinite dharna if a solution is not reached by March 12, 2026.
  • Discussions are ongoing to sub-classify within the 15% reservation quota for SCs.
  • A proposal is being considered to allocate a quota for 59 nomadic communities.
  • The Internal Reservation Committee demands withdrawal of the February 27 notification from the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms.
  • Leaders are calling for an all-party delegation to the Centre to advocate for inclusion in the Ninth Schedule.
  • Demands include internal reservation in backlog posts and 1% reservation for nomadic communities, along with the replacement of the Social Welfare Minister.

Key Takeaways:

  • The issue of internal reservation for SCs is a contentious one in Karnataka, threatening political stability.
  • Dalit groups are becoming increasingly assertive in their demands for equitable representation.
  • The government faces a tight deadline to find a solution acceptable to all stakeholders.
  • The inclusion of nomadic communities in the reservation framework adds complexity to the issue.
  • Failure to address these demands could lead to significant social unrest.

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