Overview

• Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said Karnataka’s 7% Scheduled Tribes reservation should be raised to at least 14%, or even 20%, if Kurubas are included in the ST list.
• He argued that any inclusion must not reduce opportunities for existing ST groups and cited higher ST shares in states such as Odisha, Mizoram and Nagaland.
• He clarified that former minister K. S. Eshwarappa initiated the demand and former CM Basavaraj Bommai sent the recommendation to the Union government.
• He noted that the Centre has sought clarifications on the proposal and that Kurubas have not been added to the ST list.
• Valmiki/Nayaka leaders, including V. S. Ugrappa, insisted on a proportional quota increase and constitutionally required studies, as Siddaramaiah also promised ST representation in the next cabinet reshuffle.