JP Nadda meets 'Reservation Hatao Andolan' members after Jantar Mantar protest

Union minister JP Nadda on Thursday met representatives of the 'Reservation Hatao Andolan', days after the group held a protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar seeking changes to the country’s reservation system.

The group had organised the August 21 demonstration demanding that quotas in public educational institutions and government jobs be based on economic circumstances, disability or family status rather than caste.

Nadda says more talks likely

Nadda confirmed the meeting in a post on X, but did not discuss the group’s demands or provide details of what was discussed.

“Following the movement that took place at Jantar Mantar on 21 August, cordial discussions were held, as per the pre-determined schedule, with Shri Harsh Dubey, Shri Ran Bahadur Singh Chauhan, and Shri Mrityunjay Pathak, members of the team. In this connection, we will meet again soon,” Nadda wrote on X.

The government had not previously announced that a meeting with the group was scheduled.

Harsh Dubey, one of the representatives, described the talks as an important step towards dialogue. He said the group would meet Nadda again and work towards a positive decision in the interest of society.

Group seeks overhaul of quota system

Dubey stressed that the campaign was not directed against any particular section.

“... but rather to democratically and peacefully present our views for equal opportunities, a just system, and necessary reforms in the national interest.”

The Reservation Hatao Andolan is seeking a reservation framework based on economic and other circumstances instead of caste.

At present, Other Backward Classes receive 27% reservation, while Scheduled Castes have 15% and Scheduled Tribes 7.5%. Economically Weaker Sections have a separate 10% quota.

Outreach comes amid political pressure

The August 21 protest took place ahead of assembly elections in five states, including Uttar Pradesh, putting the BJP-led government under political pressure.

Nadda has previously held negotiations with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), whose protests over examination irregularities were followed by the resignation of then Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan in July.

The government's engagement with protest groups has also sparked concern within sections of the BJP, with some leaders reportedly worried that such negotiations could encourage further protests and pressure groups.