Breaking: Chirag Paswan Says Quota Is a Constitutional Right, Not Charity

The political battle over reservation continues to intensify, with questions now emerging within the NDA as well. Union Minister and NDA ally Chirag Paswan has firmly defended the reservation system, stating that it cannot be abolished simply because some groups demand its removal. Paswan said reservation is not charity or a favour but a constitutional right designed to help communities that have historically faced discrimination and exclusion become part of the mainstream. His remarks come amid protests at Jantar Mantar and growing political debate over demands for changes to the reservation framework. The LJP (Ram Vilas) leader also indicated that he is open to engaging in dialogue with those protesting against reservation. However, he maintained that the constitutional basis and purpose of reservation must be understood before making demands for its removal. Paswan pointed out that the scope of reservation has expanded over time and that even economically weaker sections from communities traditionally outside the reservation framework can receive benefits under existing provisions. He argued that such a broad constitutional framework cannot simply be dismantled at someone’s request. His comments come at a time when the reservation issue has become a major political flashpoint in Uttar Pradesh ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections. BJP leaders have faced questions following meetings with representatives of reservation-reform groups, while opposition parties including the Samajwadi Party, BSP and Congress have accused the ruling side of creating uncertainty over quota rights.