Non-political committee should decide eligibility for reservation: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat

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Kolkata: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat said on Monday that a non-political committee should be formed to decide eligibility for reservation, as per media reports.

Bhagwat also told an interactive session of a Chamber of Commerce here that a time bound program should be chalked out regarding it. 

"Many people are demanding reservation. I feel a committee should be formed to decide who are eligible for reservation. The committee should be apolitical so that there are no vested interests," Bhagwat said, adding, "Which section of the society should be brought forward, for how long they should be given reservation - a time bound program should be chalked out regarding it. The committee should be given powers for execution."

At the same time, the RSS Bhagwat said a person not getting opportunity only because of his birth in a particular caste should not happen.

"There should be level playing field for everybody in the society. Everybody should get equal opportunities," Bhagwat said when asked what would be his solution to the problem of reservation, as per PTI.

"But only because of someone's birth a person does not get the opportunity - this should not be the case. As long as this problem prevails this situation (reservation) will be there," he said.

In September last year, Bhagwat's call for a review of reservation policy had sparked Opposition across the political spectrum.

However, as Bhagwat's remarks had triggered a row, the RSS had clarified then that its chief did not speak about the existing quota system but had said that everybody should try to ensure that all weaker sections reap its benefits.

The BJP had also distanced itself from its ideological mentor.

The saffron party had clarified that it respected 100 percent the reservation rights of SCs, STs and other backward castes as it was essential for their social and economic development and empowerment.

In an interview to RSS mouthpiece Organiser, Bhagwat had pitched for a review of the reservation policy, contending it has been used for political ends and suggesting setting up of an apolitical committee to examine who needs the facility and for how long.

(With Agerncy inputs)