Haryana CM Announces 20% Quota for Scheduled Castes in Government Jobs, Ahead of Assembly Elections

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini announced on Saturday that the state cabinet has approved the Haryana Scheduled Caste Commission Report. He revealed that a 20 percent quota in government jobs will be allocated to scheduled castes, with 10 percent of this reserved specifically for the most disadvantaged among them.

Saini stated during a press conference in Chandigarh, “The cabinet has accepted the Haryana Scheduled Caste Commission Report today. A 20 percent quota in government jobs will be reserved for scheduled castes, with the commission recommending that 10 percent of this be dedicated to the most deprived scheduled castes.” He noted that this policy will be implemented after the assembly elections to comply with the Election Commission of India’s code of conduct.

This announcement follows the declaration of assembly election dates by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar on Friday. Haryana will hold its elections in a single phase on October 1, with counting set for October 4.

Saini also expressed confidence in the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) prospects, stating, “The BJP is prepared for the elections and confident of securing a third term in Haryana. Over the past decade, we have developed Haryana impartially. Instead of misleading the public, the opposition should focus on their own accomplishments. I urge the public to participate enthusiastically in the elections.”

In addition, Saini announced the introduction of the Gambling Prevention Ordinance aimed at tackling gambling and betting in the state. The ordinance stipulates that those convicted could face up to seven years in prison or a fine of up to Rs 7 lakh.

At a rally in Hansi later that day, Saini reiterated his confidence in the BJP’s chances, saying, “I believe your support will enable us to form the BJP government for the third time. Critics, who are corrupt, are questioning us. Our double-engine government has transformed Hansi over the past decade.” He also accused Congress and former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda of creating barriers to recruitment by challenging processes in court.

Saini concluded by highlighting the government’s achievements, stating that it has provided employment opportunities to the children of underprivileged families at no cost and ensured lifelong jobs for 1.20 lakh youths under the Haryana Kaushal Rozgar Nigam.