Tamil Nadu: Exclusive Reservation quota for backward Christians

The Tamil Nadu government on Thursday announced exclusive reservation for backward sections among Christians and Muslims in government services and educational institutions within the 30% quota meant for the state's backward classes.

The Christian and Muslim minorities in the state are highly overjoyed by the decision of the govt. They say, "It’s a major breakthrough."

According to news sources, the 7% allotted, would be divided among Christians and Muslims who receive equal 3.5%. Tamil Nadu chief minister M Karunanidhi said, the added benefits to Christians and Muslims, would be brought to effect from September 15, which is the 99th birth anniversary of DMK founder CN Annadurai.

The Christians especially those converted from scheduled castes, CSI Christians, Latin Catholics would specially benefit the reservation. The Muslim groups that benefit are the Tamil and Urdu speaking Labbai Muslims, Rawthar Muslims and Marikars. They are part of the 142 castes declared as Backward Classes in the state.

It is learnt that the decision of government was based on recommendations made by the State Backward Classes Commission headed by retired Madras HC judge Justice Janardanam.

This is the second time the chief minister of Tamil Nadu is providing exclusive reservation for specific castes among backward classes.