Cong, govt say they subscribe to existing reservation policy

Under attack over Janardan Dwivedi's pitch against reservation on caste lines, Congress and the government today distanced themselves from the senior leader remarks, saying it was his "personal" view and that they support, adhere and subscribe to the existing policy.
While maintaining that Dwivedi is an "extremly seasoned and experienced" politician, party spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said, "His statement on the issue of caste-based reservation or absence thereof is his personal opinion.
"Congress continues to adhere to, subscribe to and support existing reservation policy as on today. There is no re-thinking or change in our stand."
Samajwadi Party and BSP, which are supporting the UPA II government from outside, created an uproar in Parliament in protest against the remarks. BJP and SAD have questioned the timing of the Congress leader's statements as it has come ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.

Amid uproar in Parliament over the issue, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Rajiv Shukla said in the Rajya Sabha, "The government is not considering any proposal to provide reservation based on economic criteria. The reservation as it stands today will continue as per constitutional provision."
Dwivedi, who is a member of the Upper House, was present when Shukla made the clarification.
At the AICC briefing, Surjewala faced a barrage of questions with reporters seeking to know whether AICC was condemning Dwivedi's remarks as he was the one who has been advocating enforcement of discipline in the party. "I have noted your question," was the refrain of Surjewala.