Mayawati Criticizes Congress on Reservation Sub-classification

BSP chief Mayawati has criticized the Congress for its stance on the sub-classification within SCs and STs, accusing it of vague communication around the issue. Despite winning seats promising protection of reservation, the Congress remains undecided on the exclusion of the creamy layer from benefits. Mayawati also challenged the Congress's claims regarding the credit for India’s reservation policies.

BSP chief Mayawati on Sunday criticized the Congress for its stance on sub-classification within SCs and STs, asserting that the party appears supportive of such division. She pointed out that the Congress, which assured protection of reservation to secure Lok Sabha seats, has yet to strongly oppose excluding the creamy layer from quota benefits.

On August 1, the Supreme Court declared that states have the constitutional power to sub-classify scheduled castes and tribes and should exclude the creamy layer from reservation. Mayawati highlighted that Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge indicated the party's plan to consult various experts before formalizing their stance, suggesting support for sub-classification.

Mayawati also slammed the Congress for not crediting Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar for reservation policies, instead attributing it to historical leaders like Nehru and Gandhi. She called out the Congress's lack of clarity and action in Parliament against the Supreme Court decision.

(With inputs from agencies.)