Ranchi, September 4, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale on Friday said reservation for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs) and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) should continue as long as the caste system and caste-based discrimination persist in India.
Addressing a press conference at the State Guest House in Ranchi, Athawale described reservation as a measure of social justice and representation, saying it would remain necessary until caste-based inequalities are eliminated.
He said the existing reservation framework should be reviewed on the basis of the actual population of different castes so that communities receive their due share in representation and opportunities. He also stressed the need for a caste census, saying reliable population data would help policymakers make informed decisions and improve social representation.
On the controversy surrounding examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC), Athawale said the concerns raised by aspirants should be taken seriously.
“If there have been any irregularities in the examination process, an impartial inquiry should be conducted,” he said.
Athawale called for a balanced resolution to the grievances of protesting candidates while ensuring that those who have already cleared the examinations and secured appointments are not subjected to injustice.
He said long-term solutions to such disputes would require a transparent recruitment system, clear examination procedures and well-defined rules governing future appointments. Any revised policy, he added, should protect the interests of existing aspirants while creating greater employment opportunities for young people in government services.
The Union Minister also called for faster industrial development in Jharkhand, pointing to the state’s rich mineral resources and extensive mining activity as providing considerable potential for industrial expansion.
He urged the state government to work in coordination with the Centre to establish new industries and create more employment opportunities for local residents.
Athawale also referred to Central government infrastructure initiatives, including the National Highways programme and the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, saying these schemes have contributed to infrastructure development in Jharkhand and benefited its people.
On social harmony, Athawale said all religions should be respected. Describing himself as a Buddhist and a follower of Dr B.R. Ambedkar, he said India should progress by taking people of all faiths along, including Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, Jains and Buddhists.
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