At mahapanchayat in Rajasthan, call for Gujjar reservation, but disagreement over BJP govt response
A powerful display of unity and unrest unfolded in Karauli district on Sunday as thousands from the Gujjar community gathered for a Mahapanchayat to reignite their long-standing demand for reservation under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category. The gathering, however, was not just a call for social justice—it became a stage for expressing deepening frustration over the BJP-led state government’s silence on the matter.
The event was marked by fiery speeches, emotional appeals, and a renewed threat of agitation. But beneath the surface, the community also revealed internal cracks in leadership, strategy, and political allegiance.
A Legacy of Demands: Still Unfulfilled
The Gujjars in Rajasthan have been demanding 5% reservation under a special category for over 20 years. While previous governments, including Congress and BJP, have made partial moves—such as offering 1% reservation under the Most Backward Class (MBC) category in 2019—the community believes these concessions are symbolic and ineffective.
“For decades, we have marched, protested, blocked railways, and even lost lives. Yet our legitimate demands continue to be shelved,” said Lakhan Singh Bainsla, a senior community representative, addressing the crowd.
He emphasized that the 1% MBC quota is not sufficient for the community’s advancement, especially in government jobs and higher education, where competition is fierce.
Mounting Frustration with BJP Government
A major point of contention at the Mahapanchayat was the BJP-led Rajasthan government’s inaction. While Gujjars have historically backed the BJP in elections, Sunday’s event made it clear that support is no longer guaranteed.
“The BJP came to power with our support. But when we ask for what’s rightfully ours, they turn their faces away,” said Chandrapal Gurjar, a youth leader from Sawai Madhopur. His comments were echoed by several other speakers, who criticized the absence of any official government representative at the Mahapanchayat.
Community members expressed anger at Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, who they claim has failed to even acknowledge their concerns since taking office.
Divided Leadership, Unified Cause
While the cause remains clear, the path forward is less so. The Mahapanchayat also revealed divisions within Gujjar leadership, with various factions suggesting different approaches.
Some leaders, inspired by the legacy of Col. Kirori Singh Bainsla, called for non-violent dialogue with the government. Others advocated a return to highway and railway blockades, tactics that have previously brought Rajasthan to a standstill and forced governments into action.
“The government only listens when we disrupt normal life. Peaceful marches don’t get us headlines or results,” said Mahesh Gurjar, representing the younger activist group from Bharatpur.
Despite these differing strategies, one thing was clear: the Gujjar community is no longer willing to wait.
Political Ripples Ahead of Local Elections
The timing of the Mahapanchayat is significant. Rajasthan is headed into local body elections later this year, and Gujjars form a sizeable vote bank in eastern and southern parts of the state.
Political analysts suggest the BJP may face a backlash if the issue isn’t addressed swiftly. The opposition Congress, meanwhile, is keeping a close watch. Though no major Congress leader attended the event, insiders say the party is quietly trying to capitalize on the unrest.
Notably, Sachin Pilot, a senior Congress leader and Gujjar himself, had previously championed the reservation cause. Some believe his re-entry into the spotlight could rekindle the community’s political alignment with Congress if the BJP fails to act.
Government’s Lukewarm Response
In response to the Mahapanchayat, the Rajasthan government released a short statement late Sunday evening, urging peace and dialogue. “The government is committed to addressing the needs of all communities through constitutional methods,” the statement said, without making any direct reference to the Gujjar reservation issue.
This non-committal language has only further angered community leaders, who are demanding an official timeline for legislative or policy changes. Protest organizers have now given the government a 30-day ultimatum to begin negotiations or face statewide protests.
Future Plans: Movement Likely to Escalate
If the government continues to ignore their demands, mass protests and road blockades appear inevitable. According to insiders, plans are already underway to mobilize across multiple districts and launch a statewide strike.
“This Mahapanchayat was a warning. If ignored, the movement will go beyond Karauli. We will show our strength,” said Anita Gurjar, one of the few women leaders who spoke at the gathering.
Organizers are also preparing to submit memorandums to district collectors, plan rallies in Jaipur, and initiate legal challenges to push for the reservation demand.
Conclusion: Boiling Point Nearing
The Gujjar Mahapanchayat in Rajasthan is more than a routine protest. It’s a flashpoint of long-standing social unrest, political disillusionment, and rising youth impatience. While the community continues to express faith in the democratic process, the absence of clear action from the government is driving it towards another period of confrontation.
If the BJP government hopes to retain its stronghold in eastern Rajasthan, it will have to re-engage with the Gujjars meaningfully and transparently. For now, the community has made its stance loud and clear—and the countdown has begun.
