Reservation Debate Escalates: Paswan Accuses Manjhi of Ignoring Poor

The reservation controversy reached a new high as Chirag Paswan publicly accused Jitan Ram Manjhi of neglecting the interests of the poorest sections of society. Paswan pointed out that while the overall SC/ST quota stands at 22.5 percent, a disproportionate share of those seats is claimed by a handful of relatively better‑off castes.

Manjhi defended his position, stating that the existing system leaves out many marginalized tribes and castes, especially in Bihar’s rural hinterland. He argued that a sub‑quota would ensure that communities like the Musahars finally see representation in higher administrative roles.

Both leaders referenced the Supreme Court’s 2024 directive, which allowed states to create sub‑categories within SC and ST groups to promote equitable distribution of benefits. The court also cautioned against extending the "creamy layer" concept to these categories without clear guidelines.

Social analysts suggest that the clash reflects deeper tensions within the National Democratic Alliance, as coalition partners balance electoral calculations with policy reforms.

As the debate continues, policymakers are under pressure to craft a framework that both preserves the spirit of affirmative action and addresses the concerns of intra‑group disparities.