Raipur: In a bid to address the concerns and demands of the state’s OBC Mahasabha and backward classes welfare association, Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel has taken a proactive step by writing a formal letter to Governor Biswabhusan Harichandan. In the letter, he requests an appointment for the delegation of these associations to meet with the Governor, underscoring the urgency of their pending issues.
During the OBC Mahasammelan convened in Raipur on August 27, the Chhattisgarh OBC Mahasabha and backward classes welfare association voiced their desire to have a meeting with the Governor to discuss their long-standing demands. Acknowledging the significance of their concerns, Chief Minister Baghel has sought the Governor’s cooperation in granting the delegation an audience. He emphasizes the importance of considering their appeals with empathy and understanding, as outlined in the communication.
Unresolved Demands and Reservation Dynamics
In their interactions with Chief Minister Baghel, the members of the association raised crucial points related to the welfare of the OBC category. A central issue highlighted was the pending implementation of benefits within public welfare schemes for the OBC segment. Additionally, the implementation of a 27% OBC reservation, a topic of paramount importance, was discussed.
The backdrop of the reservation formula in Chhattisgarh is a complex one. In 2012, the previous government led by Raman Singh revised the reservation structure, with allocations of 32% for Scheduled Tribes (STs), 12% for Scheduled Castes (SCs), and 14% for other backward classes. This cumulative reservation totaled 58%. However, a legal challenge arose, and the Chhattisgarh high court declared the reservation exceeding 50% unconstitutional in 2022.
Pursuit of Resolution and Pending Bills
The Bhupesh Baghel government, demonstrating its dedication to the cause, passed two bills in December 2022, raising the aggregate quota to 76%. This new distribution included 32% for STs, 13% for SCs, 27% for OBCs, and 4% for EWS categories. The bills were sent to the then Governor of Chhattisgarh, Anusuiya Uikey, for approval. However, despite the government’s efforts, the bills remained in a state of limbo as her assent was awaited.
An interim order by the Supreme Court in May 2023 provided a partial reprieve by staying the high court’s decision, allowing the state to reintroduce a reservation of 58% for government jobs and educational institutions. This resolution reinstated the balance in quotas: 32% for STs, 13% for SCs, and 14% for OBCs.
