The state government is unlikely to disclose the special cabinet meeting or any decision on internal reservation, which is scheduled to take place on Friday. There is speculation that the special cabinet may be shelved in view of the model code of conduct prevailing in the state ahead of the Bagalkot and Davangere South constituencies.
“The government may choose not to disclose details of the deliberations or decisions that may be taken with respect to the model code of conduct applicable to post-election polls,” the source said. Several sources claimed that even though there is a Model Code of Conduct, the cabinet will be held and the details may not be made public. The decision could also be delayed.
The state government is under intense pressure from caste groups seeking or opposing internal reservation. While the Dalit Left (Madiga) seeks internal reservation, the Dalit Right (Holeya) and the Lambani, Bhovi, Korama and Koracha touchable castes oppose the provision of internal reservation up to 15%. Amid pressure from job seekers, the government is trying to fill 56,432 posts with 15% reservation and no internal quota.
According to a senior cabinet minister, the cabinet could discuss the issue but may postpone a decision on it until after the by-elections are over.
“As it stands, the matrix of internal reservations, which was fixed at 17%, cannot be mechanically fixed at 15%. There are a total of eight cases before the court – four each with internal reservation and against the increase in reservation against SCs and STs from 15% to 17% and 3% to 7%, respectively, which led to violation of the 50% limit ordered by the Supreme Court.” At the same time, the commitment of job seekers regarding recruitment cannot be stopped, said the minister.
Published – 24 March 2026 22:03 IST
