News Flash
02 October
Reported: Vishal Mayur
Over 500 activists gather on Gandhi's birth anniversary, demanding scientific review of reservation policies in Karnataka
Bengaluru: The Karnataka State Unit of the "Gora Sena" National Organisation staged a symbolic one-day satyagraha at Freedom Park on Wednesday, opposing the state's move toward internal reservation and caste classification. The event, held on the 155th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, saw participation from more than 500 activists and well-wishers from districts across Karnataka, including Bidar, Gulbarga, and Raichur.
The satyagraha aimed to urge the government not to hastily classify the reservation system, which is constitutionally mandated by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, without thorough study and scientific data. The Gora Sena emphasized that any decision on internal reservation and caste classification should be based on accurate statistics, including the educational, economic, and social conditions of Scheduled Caste communities, especially the Banjara community.
The protesters demanded that the state government refrain from making decisions based on incomplete data, as the last caste census was conducted in 2011. They stressed the need for a detailed census of the Banjara community, which they say has been economically and socially disadvantaged, particularly in the Kalyana Karnataka region. The Gora Sena also called for the establishment of a separate 'Karnataka Tanda Nigam' to address the welfare of the Gora Banjara people.
In addition, the organization urged the Rajya Sabha to pass a bill ensuring reservation in the private sector and requested state support for preserving the cultural heritage of the Banjara community, including recognition and financial aid for traditional priests.
Through this peaceful protest, the Gora Sena aims to protect the Banjara community’s rights and interests, following the principles of truth and justice as taught by Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Ambedkar.