The Maharashtra government has issued a fresh Government Resolution formally withdrawing the 5% reservation previously allocated to certain socially and educationally backward Muslim communities for government jobs and educational admissions. The decision rescinds all earlier circulars and directives, effectively ending the administrative framework that enabled these communities to obtain caste and non-creamy-layer certificates under the Special Backward Category (A). While officials maintain the move aligns with current legal interpretations following the lapse of the original 2014 ordinance, the abrupt policy shift has sparked intense public debate and political pushback from opposition leaders.
Strong reactions have emerged from opposition parties and minority rights advocates, who argue the cancellation undermines India’s commitment to inclusive development and equal opportunities. Critics have labeled the move as “anti-minority,” asserting that revoking reservation benefits will impede educational and employment access for marginalized Muslim communities already facing socio-economic challenges. Lawmakers from rival parties have called for renewed dialogue on affirmative action and urged the state government to explore alternative support mechanisms for disadvantaged citizens.
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