Shillong, August 10: Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot of Rajasthan declared a significant rise in Other Backward Classes (OBC) reservation from 21% to 27%, allocating the extra 6% to the most marginalized castes within the OBC category. As a result, the total reservation in the state will expand from 64% to 70%.
Reports stated that Gehlot unveiled this initiative during a Congress rally, marking the launch of the ruling party’s campaign for the forthcoming assembly elections at Mangarh Dham in Banswara.
Furthermore, Gehlot expressed his support for a caste-based census, inspired by Rahul Gandhi’s recent statement advocating for such a census. Gehlot stated, “We would want that caste census to begin in Rajasthan. The one who deserves their share based on their caste will get it.”
Gehlot elaborated, “In addition to the current 21% reservation for OBCs in Rajasthan, an extra 6% reservation will be introduced, designated for the most underprivileged castes within the OBC category. The OBC commission will conduct a survey to identify these castes, submitting the report within a stipulated timeframe.”
Addressing additional demands, he mentioned, “Various SC/ST organizations are also persistently requesting population-based reservation. The government is currently examining this demand.”
The move signifies a substantial step towards ensuring equitable representation and opportunities for marginalized communities in Rajasthan.