Lalu Advocates Muslim Reservation, Modi Alleges I.N.D.I.A. Intentions to Strip SC/ST, OBC Reservation

Patna: RJD Chief Lalu Prasad ignited political discourse by advocating for comprehensive reservation for Muslims. Lalu, addressing reporters at the Legislative Council during the swearing-in of an MLC, asserted that Muslims should receive complete reservation. In his address, Lalu also directed criticism towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging a concerted effort to dismantle the Constitution and democracy.

In response, Prime Minister Modi retaliated during an election rally in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh, asserting that Yadav’s statement validates the opposition’s intentions within the INDI alliance. PM Modi, referencing Yadav’s involvement in the fodder scam case, accused the Congress of aligning with individuals facing legal scrutiny.

The debate intensified as Lalu reaffirmed his stance in Patna, condemning Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s comments on “Jungle Raj” and alleging fearmongering tactics. Despite the ensuing controversy, Yadav later provided clarification regarding his remarks on Muslim reservation.

Leaders from the NDA seized the opportunity to critique Lalu’s statements, with Chirag Paswan condemning the opposition’s silence on pertinent issues and accusing them of endangering constitutional principles.

In response, BJP state spokesperson Kuntal Krishna emphasized Lalu’s prioritization of Muslim appeasement within the INDI alliance, citing the absence of constitutional provisions for religious-based reservation.

The debate also delved into the constitutional framework, with experts clarifying that while the Constitution prohibits religious-based reservation under Articles 15 and 16, minority and backward communities possess distinct rights, potentially qualifying for reservation benefits.