Bill to withdraw quota for Backward Class Christians introduced

November 13, 2008: The Hindu

CHENNAI: A Bill was introduced in the Assembly on Wednesday to withdraw exclusive reservation of 3.5 per cent provided to Backward Class Christians for enabling them to compete within the reservation provided for Backward Classes.

This was to replace the Ordinance that was promulgated last month. The government’s move followed representations from Christians, according to the statement of objects and reasons. Public Works Minister Durai Murugan, on behalf of Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, moved the Bill to amend the Tamil Nadu Backward Class Christians and Backward Class Muslims (Reservation of Seats in Educational Institutions including Private Educational Institutions and of appointments or posts in the services under the State) Act 2007.

Last year, the government enacted a law to provide 3.5 per cent reservation each for BC Christians and BC Muslims within the 30 per cent reservation provided for BCs, following the State Backward Classes Commission’s recommendation. Subsequently, a delegation of the Christian community represented to the government, stating that the BC Christians were not getting their share as they did earlier in employment and admission to educational institutions, and sought withdrawal of the separate quota.