Karnataka Cabinet approves increase in reservation for minorities from 10 pc to 15 pc in housing schemes

ANI June 19, 2025 379 views

The Karnataka government has raised minority reservations in housing schemes from 10% to 15%. BJP's Amit Malviya condemned the decision as unconstitutional and divisive. The move covers Christians, Jains, and Buddhists without requiring new legislation. The Congress-led government faces accusations of vote-bank politics over the policy shift.

"This is brazen. Blatantly illegal and unconstitutional." – Amit Malviya
Bengaluru, June 19: Karnataka Cabinet on Thursday approved an increase in the reservation quota for minority communities under various housing schemes from 10 per cent to 15 per cent.

Key Points

1

Karnataka increases minority housing quota without new rules

2

BJP slams move as unconstitutional

3

Includes Christians, Jains, Buddhists

4

Congress accused of vote-bank politics

Karnataka Minister HK Patil stated that this move does not require any new rules to be drafted.

"The reservation for all minority communities will be increased. There are Christians, Jains, Buddhists," the Minister said.

Meanwhile, responding to the decision, BJP IT Cell chief Amit Malviya issued a scathing statement on social media, calling the decision "brazen," "blatantly illegal," and "unconstitutional".

He said that for short-term political gains, "Congress is determined to sow the seeds of division, polarise communities, and rip apart the social fabric of Karnataka."

https://x.com/amitmalviya/status/1935641218135867640

"This is brazen. Blatantly illegal and unconstitutional. There can be no reservation on the basis of religion -- the Constitution is unambiguous on this. Yet, the Congress government in Karnataka is hell-bent on pushing religious quotas to appease its vote bank. This isn't governance, it's dangerous social engineering. Congress is determined to sow the seeds of division, polarise communities, and rip apart the social fabric of Karnataka -- all for short-term political gain. Karnataka deserves better," he said.

The move will apply to all housing schemes implemented by the Urban and Rural Development Departments across the state.

Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
While inclusive policies are important, reservations based on religion set a dangerous precedent. Economic status should be the primary criteria, not faith. The government should focus on creating more housing for all needy citizens. 🏠
P
Priya M.
As someone from Karnataka, I've seen how minority communities often struggle to get proper housing. This 5% increase seems reasonable if it helps uplift disadvantaged groups. But implementation must be transparent - no political favors!
S
Sanjay T.
Why is BJP making such a big issue? Many states have similar provisions. If SC/ST/OBC reservations are accepted, why not this? The constitution allows for minority welfare measures under Article 15.
A
Ananya R.
Instead of increasing reservations, why can't we improve the overall housing infrastructure? The government should build more affordable homes for EVERYONE. This constant quota politics is tiring 😒
V
Vikram J.
The timing seems suspicious - just before elections. But if this genuinely helps poor families from minority communities get roofs over their heads, I won't oppose it. Housing is a basic right after all.
N
Neha P.
As a law student, I'm confused - Supreme Court has clearly said no to religion-based reservations. How is this constitutional? The government should clarify the legal basis properly, not just make announcements.

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Tags:
Karnataka reservation minority quota Amit Malviya Congress BJP row housing schemes