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BJP to launch statewide campaign against ST reservation cut, says Ashok
Bharatiya Janata Party leader R. Ashok announced a statewide campaign against the reported reduction in ST reservation in Karnataka, citing past increases under a Bommai-led government and alleging a betrayal by the Congress government. He said consultations with affected communities are underway and highlighted opposition to related land acquisitions in Bidadi.
Why It Matters
The timeline highlights political contest over caste-based reservation, a sensitive policy issue in India that affects social justice and electoral dynamics in Karnataka.
Timeline
6 Events
Questioning land requirement given vacant flats in Bengaluru
May 13, 2026
He pointed out that about seven lakh flats in Bengaluru were vacant and questioned the need to acquire such large tracts for a township.
Opposition to Bidadi township project; land acquisition criticized
May 13, 2026
Ashok criticized the plan to build a township in Bidadi, alleging it involved acquiring about 9,600 acres of land and could amount to looting through use of 3,000 acres of government land for real estate. He argued that the interests of farmers should not be sacrificed for real-estate ambitions.
Siddaramaiah pro-Dalit claim referenced
May 13, 2026
Ashok referenced Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's claims of being pro-Dalit and questioned whether reducing ST reservation can be considered pro-Dalit.
Ashok announces BJP plans statewide campaign against ST reservation cut at press conference
May 13, 2026
At a press conference, R. Ashok, Leader of the Opposition in Karnataka's Legislative Assembly, disclosed that the BJP would launch a statewide campaign against the reported reduction in Scheduled Tribe (ST) reservation. He said the party was consulting with affected communities and aiming to mobilize support across the state.
Congress government reduced ST reservation to 3%
2023
The article states that the Congress government reduced ST reservation to 3%, returning to the earlier level before Bommai's expansion.
Bommai-era reservation increases cited as a prior BJP step
2023
Ashok noted that the previous BJP government led by Basavaraj Bommai increased SC reservation from 15% to 17% and ST reservation from 3% to 7%, to reflect population and ensure social justice.