The reservation system in India has long been a contentious issue, with the policy designed to provide affirmative action to historically disadvantaged groups, including ST, SC, and OBC communities, in areas such as education, employment, and political representation. However, over the years, various political leaders and parties have raised questions about the efficacy and fairness of the system, with some calling for its reformation or abolition.
In a recent address in Panvel, Maharashtra, Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised concerns over the ongoing political discussions surrounding reservation policies in India. Modi accused Congress and its leadership of attempting to disrupt the unity of Scheduled Tribes (ST), Scheduled Castes (SC), and Other Backward Classes (OBC) communities. Prime Minister Modi's comments focused on the stance taken by certain political figures abroad, referring to them as "Shehzade" (a term often used to mock political heirs). According to Modi, these individuals have openly declared that if given the opportunity, they would abolish the reservation system, a statement that he believes poses a direct threat to the social and economic stability of marginalized communities in India.
PM Modi, in his speech, expressed strong disapproval of such remarks, claiming that Congress is exploiting the situation to weaken the unity of the aforementioned communities. He accused the party of attempting to create divisions among the marginalized groups, thereby undermining their collective strength and welfare. Modi’s remarks come in the context of mounting political tensions as various factions within the opposition seek to challenge the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
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Meanwhile, In a rally at Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (formerly Aurangabad), Maharashtra, Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised concerns about the potential return of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance to power in the state, particularly in regard to water scarcity. Modi alleged that if the MVA were to regain control, it would worsen the state's water crisis, making people "beg for every drop of water." He urged voters, especially women, to ensure that the MVA does not come to power, as he believes they would fail to address key issues like drought and water scarcity.
Modi also criticized the MVA for its inaction during its tenure, particularly with regard to the prolonged water crisis in the Marathwada region, which he claimed had been neglected by Congress and its allies. In contrast, he praised the current government for its concrete efforts to combat drought and improve water access.
As Maharashtra approaches the November 20 state elections, both the ruling Mahayuti alliance and the opposition MVA are intensifying their campaigns, with leaders from both sides attempting to sway voters by emphasizing their respective achievements and visions for the state's future. The results will be declared on November 23.