Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale on Friday said caste-based reservation for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes should continue as long as the caste system and caste-based discrimination remain in India.
Addressing a press conference at the State Guest House in Ranchi, Athawale described reservation as an instrument of social justice and representation, saying it would remain necessary until caste-based inequalities are eliminated.
He also called for the reservation framework to be reviewed using reliable data on the population of different caste groups. A caste census, he said, would provide policymakers with accurate information and help ensure that communities receive appropriate representation and opportunities.
On JPSC and JSSC examination disputes
Commenting on the controversy surrounding examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission, Athawale said the concerns raised by candidates should be taken seriously.
“If there have been any irregularities in the examination process, an impartial inquiry should be conducted,” he said.
At the same time, he called for a balanced solution that addresses the grievances of protesting candidates without affecting those who have already cleared examinations and secured appointments.
Athawale said such disputes could be prevented in the future through a transparent recruitment policy with clearly defined examination and appointment rules. He stressed that any new framework should protect the interests of existing aspirants while creating more employment opportunities for young people.
Push for industrial growth in Jharkhand
Athawale also called for faster industrial development in Jharkhand, pointing to the state’s abundant mineral resources and established mining sector.
He urged the Jharkhand government to work closely with the Centre to attract new industries and create more employment opportunities within the state. Greater industrial activity, he said, could help provide local jobs and strengthen the state’s economy.
Referring to central government infrastructure programmes, including the National Highways programme and the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, Athawale said such initiatives had contributed to infrastructure development and benefited people across Jharkhand.
‘All religions must be respected’
On social harmony, Athawale stressed the importance of respecting people of all religions.
Describing himself as a Buddhist and follower of Dr B.R. Ambedkar, he said India’s progress depends on taking people of every faith along, including Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, Jains and Buddhists.
His remarks in Ranchi covered three key issues facing the state — equitable social representation, transparent recruitment and greater employment through industrial development.
With inputs from IANS