The upcoming winter session of Bihar’s state legislature, commencing on November 6th, carries significant political implications. The ruling Grand Alliance (GA) government is considering increasing the reservation in Bihar for backward classes, following a recent caste survey’s findings. This move could serve as a strategic response to the BJP in preparation for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
The recent caste survey reveals that Backward and Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs) together make up 63% of Bihar’s population. There is growing speculation that the GA government aims to pass a resolution in the state assembly to raise the reservation limit from the current 50% to 70% during the winter session.
Although no official confirmation exists, this potential increase in reservation is poised to face legal scrutiny, as the Supreme Court’s 1992 order capped reservations at 50%. Several states have passed laws to exceed this cap, resulting in legal challenges.
During an all-party meeting, the GA, consisting of RJD, JD(U), Congress, and left parties, advocated for higher reservations to reflect the numerical strength of various caste groups.
Increasing reservation limits for backward classes is viewed as a way to revive caste-based politics in the Hindi heartland and counter the BJP’s religious polarization strategies. If a resolution is passed, it could be a significant move by the GA ahead of the 2024 polls.
As the winter session coincides with assembly polls in five states, the GA is aware that decisions regarding reservation increases could impact opposition campaigns against the BJP, especially in states with a strong focus on caste politics.
This potential development aligns with the GA’s commitment to the welfare of marginalized sections based on the caste survey’s findings. Currently, Bihar has 18% reservation for EBCs, 12% for backward classes, 16% for scheduled castes, 1% for scheduled tribes, and 3% for women from backward classes in state jobs and educational institutions.
In conclusion, the winter session in Bihar holds the promise of a significant political maneuver that could reshape the landscape of caste-based politics in the region, impacting both state and national elections.
