Antulay dismisses BJP opposition to quota for Muslims, Christians

New Delhi, Nov 14 (UNI) Falling short of using the word reservation, Union Minister for Minorities Affairs Abdul Rehman Antulay today advocated the same facilities and opportunities for dalit Muslims, Christians and weaker section of other minorities as enjoyed by Hindu Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.

He also supported reservation for weaker sections among Muslims and other minorities in the private sector too.

''There is no reason why these minorities should be excluded from any special opportunity if given to other sections,'' Mr Antulay said talking to UNI.

Muslims and Christians too are the citizens of India and they have every right to claim special provisions made for non-minorities, he said.

He hinted that the Sachchar Committee which was to present its report to the Prime Minister on November 17 might contain some reccommendation regarding reservation for Muslims in the private sector.

''I may speak to the Prime Minister on these issues, but would like to wait for the Sachchar Committee report, which might already be containing the provisions I am advocating,'' said the Minister.

''There should be no Constitutional hurdle in executing measures to achieve these objectives, as it is the very constitution that wants a level playing field for all sections of the society,'' said Mr Antulay, dismissing the BJP stance that religion should not form the basis of reservation.

''It is not a question of favouring anybody on the basis of religion, it is just a matter of ensuring justice to those sections of religious minorities who need it,'' he said.

The Constitution provides for the rule of law and if there is one rule for the people belonging to non-minorities, it should apply to minorities also, he argued.

When asked whether, he was advocating an amendment of the Constitution to include Dalits and Muslims and others in the Scheduled Castes, he said that justice can be ensured to them through other mechanism without amending the constitution.

Replying to question, Mr Antulay said he was fully confident that the Sachchar Committee Report on the status of minorities would be accepted and its recommendations implemented.

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