Affirmative Action for Muslims in India: A New Perspective

In contemporary India, the concept of affirmative action has become narrowly associated with reservations in government jobs and public education. This limited view stifles broader discussions on social justice. The demand for reservations is widespread among various disadvantaged groups, including the Muslim community, following the socio-economic disadvantages highlighted by the Sachar Committee Report (SCR).

Need for Affirmative Action

• The SCR identified Muslims as a disadvantaged socio-religious group, comparable to SC/ST in educational terms and OBC in terms of income and wealth.
• Despite similar socio-economic backgrounds, "upper-caste" Hindus have greater access to higher education and professional courses than Muslims.

Challenges with Reservation for Muslims

• Legal-constitutional issue: The Constitution does not permit recognizing religious communities as socially and educationally backward.
• Sociological issue: Muslims are not homogenous; they consist of diverse biradaris with varying socio-economic profiles.
• Political issue: Proposing reservations for Muslims could trigger a nationwide counter-mobilization, worsening their situation.

Alternative Approaches to Address Disadvantages

• Religion-agnostic Quota Approach:
  • Ensure backward Muslim communities are included in OBC lists.
  • Consider splitting OBC into "extremely backward" and "backward" categories.
  • Remove the ban on classifying "untouchable" Muslims as SC.
• Anti-discrimination Measures: Implement an anti-discrimination law and establish an Equal Opportunity Commission.

Sectoral and Spatial Approaches

• Spatial approach: Improve public infrastructure in Muslim-dominated localities.
• Sectoral approach: State support for industries dominated by Muslims, like weaving and brass manufacture.
• Encourage private sector diversity through mandatory requirements for government subsidies and contracts.

Looking Beyond State Intervention

• Engage NGOs and community charities to address local Muslim communities' needs.
• This strategic blueprint is crucial for the future, despite current political challenges.