TDP Promises Muslim Reservation in Andhra Pradesh

In Andhra Pradesh, ahead of the simultaneous Lok Sabha and assembly elections on May 13, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) President N Chandrababu Naidu has stirred controversy by promising 4% reservation for Muslims if his party wins. This move comes amidst strong opposition from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the TDP's ally in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

While PM Narendra Modi and other BJP leaders have vehemently opposed the idea, Naidu remains firm in his stance, asserting that the TDP has consistently supported Muslim reservation. Despite not being mentioned in the NDA's manifesto for Andhra Pradesh, Naidu's commitment to this cause has remained unwavering.

Furthermore, Naidu has pledged financial assistance of Rs 1 lakh to every Muslim for the Hajj pilgrimage, should the NDA come to power in the state. However, BJP leaders, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, have criticized such promises, arguing that religion-based reservation is unconstitutional and diverts resources meant for other marginalized communities.

The debate surrounding Muslim reservation continues to polarize opinions, with Naidu's TDP taking a divergent stance from its ally, the BJP. As the elections draw closer, the issue of reservation for Muslims remains a contentious topic in Andhra Pradesh politics.