The reinstatement of the quota system in Bangladesh, which reserved 30% of jobs for descendants of liberation movement participants, sparked protests and ultimately led to the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This system has been a contentious issue in India as well, where reservations are an integral part of the constitution. While the BJP denied allegations of wanting to change the constitution, their actions have raised suspicions and led to electoral losses. Meanwhile, BJP allies have taken stances against their perceived or actual stance on reservation, indicating the importance of this issue in Indian politics.
Background:
Reservation is a policy that sets aside a certain percentage of seats in education and government jobs for historically disadvantaged groups. In India, the reservation system was introduced as part of the constitution in 1950 to address historical inequalities faced by certain castes and tribes. In Bangladesh, a similar system was implemented after the country's independence in 1971.
Quota System in Bangladesh:
In Bangladesh, the quota system was introduced to provide special privileges to descendants of those who participated in the country's liberation movement. In 1973, the quota was set at 30% of jobs in both government and private sectors. However, the system faced widespread criticism and protests from non-quota candidates.
Controversy in India:
In India, the reservation system has also been a subject of debate and controversy. While the system was initially aimed at addressing historical injustices, it has been criticized for perpetuating divisions within society and creating a sense of entitlement among certain groups.
BJP's Stance:
The current ruling party in India, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has expressed mixed views on the reservation system. While the party has officially denied any intention of changing the constitution, its actions have raised suspicions among some groups. For example, in 2018, the BJP-led government proposed a 10% quota for economically weaker sections (EWS) within the general category. This move was seen as a way to dilute the existing reservation system.
Electoral Losses:
The BJP's perceived stance on reservation has led to electoral losses in some states. In the 2019 general elections, the party faced strong resistance from Dalit and tribal groups in several constituencies.
Allies' Positions:
Some of the BJP's allies have taken strong stances against any perceived attempts to change the reservation system. For example, the Shiv Sena, a key ally of the BJP in western India, has threatened to withdraw its support if the government tries to tinker with the system.
FAQs:
To address historical inequalities faced by certain groups and to ensure their equitable representation in society.
30% for descendants of liberation movement participants.
Yes, the party has proposed a 10% quota for economically weaker sections (EWS) within the general category.
They believe it dilutes the existing reservation system and undermines the rights of disadvantaged groups.
Some allies have taken strong stances against any changes to the system, threatening to withdraw their support if necessary.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrates Diwali with Navy personnel aboard INS Vikrant, praising the warship's role in instilling fear in Pakistan. He commemorates India's military might and the bravery of armed forces in Operation Sindoor, while also highlighting INS Vikrant as a symbol of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Made in India. The festive celebrations on board consisted of cultural performances and an air power demonstration, making the occasion deeply symbolic and unforgettable.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali with the crew of India's indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, describing the ship as a symbol of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Made in India. He saluted the Indian Navy, Air Force, and Army for their courage, skill, and coordination, especially during the 1971 victory over Pakistan. The Prime Minister also highlighted the progress towards self-reliance in India's defence production, with thousands of items now being manufactured domestically and a new indigenous warship or submarine being inducted into the Navy every 40 days on average.
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali with the Indian Navy on the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier stationed off the coast of Goa and Karwar. The cultural programme organized by the Navy was described by PM Modi as an unforgettable experience. He also praised the dedication and creativity of the naval personnel and highlighted the success of the armed forces in Operation Sindoor with a patriotic song "The Vow of Sindoor". In addition, PM Modi also addressed the country's security forces and lauded their efforts in combating Naxalism.
In a powerful Diwali speech on board INS Vikrant, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the coordination of India's armed forces in Operation Sindoor, which led to a swift surrender by Pakistan. He also emphasized the importance of self-reliance in strengthening the armed forces and highlighted India's progress in manufacturing essential military equipment domestically. He further announced India's goal to become a top defence exporter, with a significant increase in defence exports in the last decade.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued his tradition of celebrating Diwali with India's armed forces by visiting the INS Vikrant off the coast of Goa and Karwar. He praised the Navy personnel for their dedication towards the security of the nation and expressed his gratitude to the families of the brave soldiers. PM Modi also witnessed an impressive display of precision and prowess during an Air Power Demo on INS Vikrant, showcasing the technological excellence of the Indian Navy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali 2025 with Indian Navy personnel aboard the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, highlighting the ship's strength and psychological impact on adversaries. Commissioned in 2022, the carrier is a symbol of India's self-reliance and strategic resolve. PM Modi praised the bravery and dedication of the naval personnel, reinforcing the bond between the armed forces and the government.
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