Haryana Announces 20% Job Quota for Scheduled Castes

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini announced the state cabinet's acceptance of the Haryana Scheduled Caste Commission Report, reserving 20% of government jobs for scheduled castes. This rule will be implemented post-assembly elections scheduled for October 1, as BJP eyes forming the government for the third time.

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini announced on Saturday that the state cabinet has accepted the Haryana Scheduled Caste Commission Report. The report includes provisions to reserve 20% of government job quotas for scheduled castes. Saini elaborated during a press conference in Chandigarh, stating that 10% of the quota would be allocated to deprived scheduled castes.

The new quota policy is set to be implemented after the upcoming assembly elections, adhering to the code of conduct from the Election Commission of India. This announcement follows the declaration of election dates by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar. Haryana will hold its election on October 1, with vote counting on October 4.

Saini also remarked that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is well-prepared for the elections, aiming to form the government for the third consecutive term. He highlighted the development work carried out over the past decade and criticized the opposition, urging citizens to vote enthusiastically.

In addition to the quota policy, Saini announced the introduction of the Gambling Prevention Ordinance to curb betting activities. Offenders could face up to seven years in jail or a fine of up to Rs 7 lakh. He expressed confidence in BJP's prospects during a rally in Hansi, tackling issues like corruption and discussing employment initiatives under Haryana Kaushal Rozgar Nigam.

He accused the Congress and former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda of obstructing recruitment processes, ensuring that his government provided ample employment opportunities without discrimination.

(With inputs from agencies.)