Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said the passage of Constitution Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha providing for 10 per cent reservation to economically backward upper castes was a "landmark" moment in the country's history and reflects his government's commitment to 'sabka saath, sabka vikas'.
BJP President Amit Shah also hailed the Bill as "historic" and said it was a strong step to bring about a positive change in the lives of a large section of the society.
In a series of tweets, Modi said the passage of the Bill sets into motion the process to achieve an effective measure that ensures justice for all sections of society.
"The passage of The Constitution (One Hundred And Twenty-Fourth Amendment) Bill, 2019 in the Lok Sabha is a landmark moment in our nation's history.
"We are resolutely committed to the principle of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'. It is our endeavour to ensure that every poor person, irrespective of caste or creed gets to lead a life of dignity and gets access to all possible opportunities," he said.
The Prime Minister thanked the MPs from all parties for their support to the Bill and appreciated "those MP colleagues who enriched today's debate with their views".
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Shah, in his statement, said the passage of the Bill was also a lesson for the parties which for years have been practising politics of appeasement.
"I congratulate the Prime Minister and his Cabinet for this decision which was pending for decades. Modi government's commitment for the economic upliftment of every section of the society is not only admirable but also a lesson for political parties indulging in appeasement for several years," he said.
Shah said that the decision will not only be a "gift" to the poor among the general categories but will also open a door for their bright future.
"It is a matter of pride for BJP that the demand which the youth were making for several years, the Modi government has moved forward in that direction. It will give justice to crores of youth in the country and give them right opportunity to improve their future," he said, adding that poor families who had not got any fruits of reservation since independence will now benefit from the decision.
Referring to the issue of merit in reservation, he said a decision has been taken to increase seats by 10 per cent in every branch in educational institutions "so that there is no loss to meritorious students".
--IANS
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