BJP criticises T.N. Minister’s statement on increasing reservation for Muslims

BJP State unit president Nainar Nagenthran on Monday (June 15, 2026) strongly objected to Tamil Nadu Minister for Minorities Welfare A.M. Shahjahan’s (IUML) statement regarding a demand to increase the reservation for Muslims, from the existing 3.5% to 5%, within the Backward Classes quota. Mr. Nagenthran further urged the TVK-led coalition government to drop such a proposal.

“While some Hindus from the Backward Classes have already lost their representation due to the existing 3.5% reservation for Muslims in Tamil Nadu, additional reservation for Muslims would further reduce the representation of Hindus from Backward Classes,” Mr. Nagenthran contended.

During an interaction with reporters, Mr. Shahjahan had said the Indian Union Muslim League had been consistently advocating for increasing the reservation (in public service and education) for Muslims, from the existing 3.5% to 5%, in the State.

“We made the demand to the Chief Minister some 10 days ago. He has assured to consider the demand and take necessary action in this regard. We firmly believe it would be increased in the coming days,” Mr. Shahjahan had said.