'Shiv Sena supports this?' BJP questions Uddhav govt on proposed Maharashtra Muslim quota

After sources reported that Shiv Sena was preparing to introduce a "Muslim-based reservation" in state, BJP leader Kirit Somaiya slammed Sena for supporting a reservation based on religious grounds and engaging in "appeasement politics.". Although  reservation in Maharashtra has already breached 70%, sources reported on Friday that Thackeray-led Aghadi government is preparing to introduce a Muslim-based reservation in state.

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Maharashtra Minister and Congress leader Aslam Sheikh had earlier confirmed that a reservation for Muslims was a part of Maha Vikas Aghadi's Common Minimum Programme. It is expected that government will make a formal anuncement on same. Incidentally, a Muslim reservation was mentioned in Congress and NCP's manifesto. And with Shiv Sena w backing it, it seems that such a proposition is highly likely. 

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Read: w, Uddhav Thackeray's government to introduce a Muslim quota in Maharashtra: Sources

Muslim quota undecided: NCP

NCP Spokesperson Nawab Malik on Friday stated that proposition for a quota for Muslims was in talks however exact quota percent was undecided. Malik stated that idea was floated since Common Minimum Programme (CMP) had a mention of it however it was t finalised yet. He pointed out that in 2014 Congress-NCP government had passed an ordinance reserving 5% for Muslims. He added that this promise was a part of all three parties' – including Shiv Sena's – manifestos.  

Read: NCP confirms Uddhav govt considering Muslim quota in Maharashtra, points at alliance CMP

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