Bengaluru: A special cabinet meeting, scheduled for March 27 to discuss a solution to the ongoing internal reservation controversy, is expected to face a litmus test in the form of the model code of conduct (MCC), which is in force due to the two by-elections to be held on April 9.The govt finds itself in a tight situation. It has already “reverted” to 15% reservation for the SCs on account of court cases over enhancing the reservation to 17%. It has also been facing a massive backlash from the left sect of SCs for not announcing a “proportional” internal reservation while facing an equal pushback from the right sect, the Bhovis and Lambanis, as they fear their chances of securing govt jobs will be severely dented.Senior cabinet ministers from the right sect told TOI that MCC is an added “consideration” that needs to be dealt with, apart from the ongoing court cases and the left sect’s unwillingness to come to the table for a resolution.“It is true that the MCC is in place, and the same has to be considered before we (govt) announce any kind of a resolution. However, the ongoing cases in the courts are also a deal breaker to implement the internal reservation,” a minister said, echoing the view of several others.The left sect, however, does not see MCC as a hurdle.Excise minister, and one of the key players in the demand for internal reservation under the 15%, RB Thimmapur said the MCC had been set aside while announcing the setting up of the AJ Sadashiva commission to study the matter.“When the Sadashiva committee was being announced, the Hungund bypoll was being held. So there is no reason why we cannot announce the internal reservation now,” said Thimmapur.He, however, said a final decision will be taken in the cabinet and further discussions will happen soon after it is decided.Sceptical about the decision that may be taken, SC left dalit activist Amabanna Arolikar claimed that the govt may use any number of reasons to postpone the internal reservation question.“We will have to wait and see what the govt does under MCC,” he said.Sources suggested that chief minister Siddaramaiah has to consider MCC and its violations that may hurt the state before deciding on announcing any measure.State chief electoral officer (CEO) V Anbukumar refused to comment on the special cabinet and its announcements.“The law is very clear and the govt is capable of interpreting it,” he said.Meanwhile, the left sect is also keeping a close eye on the Bhovi and Lambani rally scheduled for March 23 and 24 followed by that of the Chauvadhis or the right sect of the SCs on March 25.
