Chief Minister M K Stalin expressed satisfaction on Wednesday, noting the alignment of the principles of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) within the Congress manifesto. Speaking at the conference of the All India Social Justice Federation, DMK Rajya Sabha MP P Wilson conveyed Stalin’s sentiments, highlighting Tamil Nadu’s crucial role in advocating social justice across India.
Stalin emphasized the historical significance of Tamil Nadu’s contributions to social justice, tracing back to the Justice Party Government’s initiatives dating back to 1921. He lauded the introduction of reservations for the underprivileged through the communal Government Order (G.O.), a milestone in the state’s pursuit of equitable representation.
Reflecting on post-independence challenges to the reservation system, Stalin underscored the pivotal role of the Dravidian Movement in safeguarding affirmative action. He referenced the famed ‘happenings in Madras,’ which catalyzed the first amendment to the Indian constitution, solidifying measures for the upliftment of marginalized communities.
Stalin expressed his satisfaction at finding echoes of DMK principles within the Congress Election Manifesto for the 2024 Parliamentary Elections. He expressed hope that the forthcoming government would earnestly fulfill its pledges to uplift Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes (SC/STs).
Highlighting recent strides in social justice, Stalin pointed to the OBC, SC/ST reservation exceeding the 50% ceiling. He commended the groundbreaking decision to introduce a 7.5% reservation in professional courses for students from Government schools, alongside full financial support for those admitted under this quota.
Moreover, Stalin highlighted the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly’s resolution urging the Union Government to extend reservations to Scheduled Caste members who have converted to Christianity.