Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy lashes out at TDP supremo Chandrababu Naidu for his double standards regarding Muslim reservations in the state. Jagan reiterated that they are committed to continuing the 4% reservation quota for Muslims. He challenged Naidu, can he say the same in the presence of PM Narendra Modi, his alliance partner? Jagan criticised Naidu as a chameleon who has tied up with the BJP and is trying to deceive Muslims. At the Kurnool election rally, Jagan gave a clear assurance to Muslims regarding reservations and sought votes for the YSRCP, which protects minority rights.
Jagan stated that the 4% reservation for Muslims is not based solely on religion; rather, it is based upon backwardness. He further added that, like other religions, Muslims also have socially and economically backward classes (OCs and BCs), so it would be unjust to remove reservations for them. He pointed out that elite sections such as Pathans, Syeds, and Mughals do not receive reservations, emphasising that only backward Muslims benefit from this policy. Moreover, regarding the CAA and NRC, YSRCP will stand with the Muslim community indefinitely, opposing these acts by the Centre.
Jagan emphasised that since the YSRCP came into power, it has ensured significant representation for Muslims in mainstream politics. He mentioned that the YSRCP has appointed four Muslim minorities as MLCs and appointed a Deputy Chief Minister and a Legislative Council Vice Chairman from the community. Additionally, the party has given seven Assembly tickets to candidates from the minority community, which constitutes four percent of the 175 seats. He criticised Naidu for not making similar efforts for the Muslim community and urged the people not to trust Chandrababu Naidu or vote for him.
Chandrababu Naidu formed alliances with the BJP and Janasena for the Lok Sabha and assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh. While Amit Shah and Narendra Modi openly oppose Muslim reservations, Naidu claims that the TDP supports them. However, by continuing in the NDA and stating that the TDP will continue to support Muslim reservations, Naidu demonstrates his double standards. Naidu appears to be trying to secure minority votes by claiming to support reservations, despite his alliance with the BJP. But on the ground, speculation suggests the Muslim community is moving away from the Telugu Desam Party. Upon realising this, there are allegations against the TDP, as they are asking to vote for Congress if they do not want to vote for the TDP, to split minority votes. However, there are positive indications among Muslims towards the YSRCP, as Jagan did really well for them.
Tags : Chandrababu Naidu, YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, Muslim Reservations, AP Elections 2024