The TV9 Digital meeting in Purnia, Bihar, addressed the issue of reservation for the Pan-Tanti community, along with the political affiliations of the Indian Inclusive Party (IIP). Political parties present expressed their agreement on providing reservation to the Pan-Tanti community.
The IIP leader clarified that their party would align with the alliance that promises reservation for the Pan-Tanti community. Khushboo, an IIP leader, highlighted that the Pan-Tanti community once had reservation rights, which were later revoked. She cited the 2015 reservation by Nitish Kumar and its subsequent cancellation by the Supreme Court, despite review petitions.
She emphasized that the IIP would support any party providing reservation to the Pan-Tanti community, particularly if the NDA could secure it through parliamentary procedures. The IIP wants a written guarantee and a bill passed within five days before committing to the alliance. She asserted their openness to both the NDA and the Mahagathbandhan but prioritized the restoration of the community’s reservation rights.
RJD’s Professor Alok advocated for the Rashtriya Janata Dal’s commitment to all castes and religions, supporting appropriate participation and responsibility for the Pan community. He criticized the NDA for its history of retracting benefits and stressed the importance of upholding the SC status of the Pan community. Alok questioned the Supreme Court’s decision and alleged the NDA’s hypocrisy on the matter.
LJP’s Nishant Mishra stated the Pan-Tanti community’s historical association with the NDA and the need for the government to seriously consider reservation. He mentioned Nitish Kumar’s review petition and the government’s commitment to the community. He highlighted that the NDA is positive towards the Pan community. Mishra accused the opposition of attempting to mislead the Pan community. He targeted AIMIM and discussed Chirag Paswan’s potential political role.
AIMIM’s Adil Hasan declared his party’s support for those opposing the BJP and those who can defeat it. He criticized the current government’s handling of Seemanchal, particularly regarding healthcare and special status, questioning the absence of hospitals in the region. He pointed out the lack of representation for Muslims in the state government and the need for their fair share.