Opposition parties Friday demanded 5 per cent reservation for Muslims in education and government jobs in Maharashtra, but the BJP-led dispensation countered them, saying there is no provision for religion- based quota in the Constitution.
Congress and NCP MLCs vociferously raised the demand in the Maharashtra Legislative Council.
Taking part in a calling attention moved by Manisha Kayande (Shiv Sena), Congress and NCP legislators said despite a large section of Muslims falling under the economically weaker section, the state government has failed to offer any reservation benefits to the community in education and jobs.
However, Minister for Higher and Technical Education Minister Vinod Tawde said the ruling BJP cannot go against constitutional provisions regarding quota.
"Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar had categorically mentioned at the time of drafting the Constitution that reservation should not be provided on the basis of religion.
"The BJP, as the party in power, cannot set this provision aside and offer reservation to Muslims."
He said "OBCs among Muslims are already covered under the existing reservation for Other Backward Classes. Also, some Muslims will benefit from the 10 per cent reservation granted to economically weaker sections."