Karnataka Assembly Passes Muslim Quota Bill Amid Chaos, BJP Protests
The Karnataka Assembly passed a controversial bill on Friday granting a 4% quota for Muslims in public contracts, sparking fierce protests from BJP MLAs who tore copies of the bill and threw them at the Speaker amid a honey trap scandal uproar.
On March 21, 2025, the Siddaramaiah-led government pushed through the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurement (Amendment) Bill despite chaos. The legislation reserves 4% of government tenders for Muslim contractors, escalating tensions in the Assembly.
The opposition BJP labeled the bill “unconstitutional” and vowed legal action. BJP MLAs stormed the well of the House, climbed the Speaker’s seat, and shredded the bill, hurling pieces at the Speaker in a dramatic protest.
The session was already volatile due to Cooperative Minister KN Rajanna’s honey trap allegations. BJP leaders waved CDs, suggesting blackmail, further intensifying the confrontation with the ruling Congress.
The Congress government justified the quota as a step toward social justice and economic upliftment for minorities. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said it aligns with the state’s commitment to inclusive development.
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The bill ensures a 4% reservation for Muslim contractors in public contracts, aiming to enhance their access to government tenders. It amends existing procurement laws to facilitate this quota.
BJP MLA Bharath Shetty stated, “Instead of discussing the honey trap scam, the Chief Minister was busy presenting the four per cent Muslim bill, and hence we protested.” He added that government MLAs also threw papers at them.
The BJP plans to challenge the bill in court, alleging it violates constitutional norms. With the Assembly session ongoing, further debates and legal developments are expected in the coming days.
