PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss seeks full caste-based representation in Tamil Nadu

PMK President Anbumani Ramadoss renewed his demand for complete caste-based proportional representation on Wednesday. He made this statement to mark the centenary year of the implementation of the Communal Government Order number 1071, which brought in 100 percent communal representation.

Historical Background

Dr. Anbumani noted that the reservation policy was extended to Central government offices in the Madras Presidency in 1935. It continued until the Madras High Court gave its verdict in the Champakam Dorairajan case in 1950. The First Amendment to the Constitution of India in 1951 then introduced a new system starting with 25 percent for Backward Classes and 18 percent for Scheduled Castes, which totaled 41 percent. This share has since grown to 69 percent in Tamil Nadu.

Party Stance and Action

Dr. Anbumani stated that true social justice remains unachieved until every community gets a share matching its population size. He praised the state government led by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay for accepting the Pattali Makkal Katchi demand to conduct a social justice survey and set up a commission. He urged the government to speed up further steps without delay.

Context

Calls for proportional reservation based on caste are a major part of political debates in Tamil Nadu, where quota policies have a long history. Conducting caste-based surveys helps governments gather the data needed to review existing reservation shares for different communities.