Muslim Reservation in AP is Social Justice, Not Appeasement: TDP – The Siasat Daily

Muslim Reservation in AP is Social Justice, Not Appeasement: TDP – The Siasat Daily

Keywords: Muslim reservation, Andhra Pradesh, social justice, TDP

The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) has defended the provision of 4% reservation for Muslims in Andhra Pradesh, arguing that it is a matter of social justice and not appeasement. TDP leader Devineni Uma Maheswara Rao stated that the reservation was based on empirical evidence and was necessary to address the socio-economic disparities faced by the Muslim community.

“The Muslim community has been historically marginalized and underrepresented in education and employment. This reservation is an affirmative action measure to ensure that they have equal opportunities and can contribute to the development of the state,” he said.

Rao criticized the opposition parties for accusing the TDP of appeasing the Muslim community. He emphasized that the reservation was not based on religion but on socio-economic backwardness.

“The TDP has always stood for social justice. We believe that every section of society deserves a fair chance to progress. This reservation is in line with our commitment to create an inclusive and equitable society,” he added.

The TDP’s announcement of Muslim reservation has sparked mixed reactions. Some sections of society have welcomed the move, while others have expressed concerns over its potential impact on merit. However, the TDP has maintained that the reservation will be implemented strictly on the basis of eligibility and economic criteria.

The government has also assured that the reservation will not be extended to other minority communities, such as Christians and Sikhs.