Regardless of what happens, 4% Muslim reservations must remain: Jagan

KURNOOL: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and YSR Congress Party President YS Jagan Mohan Reddy reaffirmed his commitment to supporting minority communities and defending their rights.

Speaking at an election campaign rally at YSR Circle, SV Complex Road in Kurnool on Thursday, he emphasised his dedication to empowering marginalised communities, upholding their dignity, and fostering self-reliance. "Whether it's Muslim reservation, NRC, CAA, or any other issues affecting minorities, the YSR Congress Party will always stand as a pillar of support for their dignity and honour," Jagan said.

He outlined the YSR Congress Party's achievements in ensuring minority representation in the political landscape. The party maintained a 4% reservation for Muslim candidates, securing seven seats in the last Assembly elections. "Regardless of what happens, the 4% Muslim reservation will remain, and that is the YSR Congress Party's final word on it," Jagan declared.

Jagan criticised TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu for his alliance with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which proposed removing the 4% Muslim reservation. He asked, "Why does Chandrababu Naidu continue his alliance with the NDA even after they pledged to cancel the 4% reservation?"

He stressed that the Muslim reservation is not based on religion. "This reservation does not categorise higher castes in the Muslim community, like Pathans, Syeds, or Mughals. It is for the backward classes within the Muslim community. It is unacceptable and morally wrong to view minorities through a discriminatory lens. Playing with their rights for political gain is unfortunate. These reservations will persist at all costs," he said.

Elaborating on the welfare measures for minorities, Jagan highlighted Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT), housing schemes for the poor, and Shadi Thofa. He also noted the declaration of Urdu as the second official language, the election of four minority community leaders as MLAs, and the appointment of a minority deputy Chief Minister. "Throughout our 59 months in governance, we ensured that minorities received their rightful share. I take pride in leading these efforts," he added.

Jagan described the upcoming elections as critical. "This election is not just about electing MLAs or MPs. It will determine the future of ongoing schemes and development for every household," he said. Jagan accused Naidu of hindering welfare programs by aligning with the NDA. He added that his administration fulfilled its promise of creating 2.31 lakh jobs and disbursed Rs. 2.70 lakh crore through DBT without corruption or discrimination.

He also questioned Chandrababu Naidu's long tenure as Chief Minister, asking, "Does any poor person remember the welfare that Chandrababu Naidu brought to the state?" He contrasted his administration's approach, saying, "We delivered welfare without discrimination against religion, caste, community, or other party affiliations."

Jagan reiterated his commitment to empowering marginalised communities, including Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Backward Classes, and minorities. "My goal is to empower these communities, uphold their dignity, and foster self-reliance among them," he said.