Following Karnataka’s decision to hike reservations for SC/ST communities, Vokkaligas in the state have demanded an increase in reservations for their community.
Story so far: Although Vokkaligas account for 16% of the state’s population, reservation for their community is capped at 4%. Chief minister Basavaraj Bommai claimed, however, that the government can only act on the recommendation of the courts and the Backward Classes Commission.
- Since the 50% reservation ceiling has been breached, the Vokkaligas have demanded an increase for their community as well.
- This demand is just one of the growing list of demands of various communities to hike or alter reservations.
Other communities: Apart from the Vokkaligas’ demand for a hike in reservation, many other communities have also put forth their demands. Valmikis (ST) have demanded 7.5% reservation, while Panchamsalis have demanded that the government include them under the ‘2A’ reservation category. Kurubas have also launched a campaign demanding that they be added to the ST list.