Mumbai: MP Supriya Sule has asked why reservations are necessary if one is financially well-off. Citing her own example, she said, “My parents are educated, I am educated, and my children are educated. In such a situation, if I too demand reservations, I should be ashamed of it.” However, Supriya Sule has called for further research on this issue and a proper combination of caste and economic factors to be developed to provide reservations based on that. Reservation has always been a sensitive issue in Indian politics. In this context, Supriya Sule’s statement is significant.
Earlier, Sharad Pawar, the head of the Nationalist Congress Party (SP) and Supriya Sule’s father, had made a significant statement on the reservation issue. He stated that the central government plays a crucial role in resolving the reservation issue across the country. The government should take a decision on reservations through constitutional amendments through Parliament. Speaking at an event, Sharad Pawar, the head of the NCP-SP, said, “The reservation issue should be resolved at the national level by amending the Constitution at the appropriate time.” Sharad Pawar stated that the issue of reservation is creating divisions in society, leading to bitterness and alienation.
Supriya Sule stated that reservation should be provided to those in need. Reservation has been a politically sensitive issue in the country. Supriya Sule was asked about reservation, and she stated that there should be equal opportunity for all. She stated that reservation should be provided to those who truly need it. Sharad Pawar cited the example of Tamil Nadu, where 72 percent reservation is provided in the state. Pawar stated, “If reservation issues are to be resolved, decisions should be made at the national level.
The central government must decide on this. If 72 percent reservation can be provided in Tamil Nadu, then a decision should be taken in Parliament to resolve the reservation issue by amending the Constitution at an appropriate time.” Reservation has been established to bring the underprivileged sections of the country into the mainstream of society. Reservation is provided based on caste. A few years ago, the central government also extended reservations to economically disadvantaged individuals. Debates often rage in this country over whether caste-based reservations are appropriate or whether they should be abolished and a new formula adopted. This means that the government should set standards for reservations based on economic status or whether only the needy can benefit.
