Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin delivered a message of hope and optimism at the Social Justice Conference organised by the Samruddha Bharat Foundation in New Delhi. Speaking through DMKās Rajya Sabha MP P Wilson, Stalin expressed confidence in the INDIA bloc’s ability to fulfill its pledges for uplifting marginalized communities ā the OBCs, SCs, and STs ā once in power at the center.
In his address, Stalin underscored Tamil Nadu’s rich legacy in championing social justice, tracing it back to the historic initiatives of the Justice Party Government of 1921. Notably, this government pioneered reservations for underprivileged sections through the communal government order, laying the foundation for equitable representation in various spheres of society.
Highlighting the enduring spirit of protest and resistance, Stalin recalled the historic demonstrations for reservations held in the erstwhile Madras Presidency. He emphasized the pivotal role played by the Dravidian Movement in safeguarding the reservation system post-independence, which led to the landmark first amendment of the Constitution.
Stalin lauded Tamil Nadu’s progressive policies aimed at fostering inclusivity and equality. Noteworthy among these is the state’s pioneering implementation of a 69% reservation quota for OBCs and SC/STs, surpassing the 50% limit mandated by the Supreme Court. Additionally, Tamil Nadu stands out for its reservation of 7.5% seats in professional courses for students from government schools, ensuring opportunities for the underprivileged to excel in higher education.
Further underscoring the state’s commitment to social justice, Stalin highlighted the recent resolution passed by the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly. The resolution urges the Union government to extend reservations to Scheduled Caste members who have embraced Christianity, advocating for the rights and inclusion of all marginalized communities.