Manmohan, not Maya nor Mulayam, gave you quota: Rahul to Muslims

Lucknow, December 31: Armed with the UPA government’s decision to give 4.5 per cent sub-quota to minorities in the OBC reservation, Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi on Friday criticised both SP and the BSP for “doing nothing” for the community when they were in power.

Addressing a rally in the minorities-dominated Saharanpur, Rahul promised that his party would increase the quota to 6-8 per cent in UP if the Congress forms a government in the state.

“We implemented the Sachar Commission report. Then we initiated the move for reservation. Prime Minister also took initiative. This will give you representation in education and jobs. We did it because we feel that we want to connect you,” said Gandhi.He said that it was Congress, which initiated the move for reservation for Muslims as it felt that they were not getting adequate opportunities.

Accusing Mayawati and Samajwadi Party chief Mulayam Singh Yadav of “changing” their stance on Muslim reservation, he said they were in power in the state for a long time but made no such effort. “Mayawati did nothing in five years. Mulayam Singh also made no effort. Now, Mayawati says that we have asked the Centre to bring reservation. “When the PM said there will be reservations (for minorities) then Mulayam commented it is less. When you were Chief Minister why did you not do any such thing?” Rahu quipped.

–PTI–