The Karnataka government has revised its reservation structure, taking the total quota in education and jobs to 56 percent. The new distribution covers Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC), marking a significant change in the state’s policy.

As per the new framework, Scheduled Castes will receive 17 percent reservation, while Scheduled Tribes have been allocated 7 percent. The OBC category, including various sub-groups, will account for 32 percent. Officials said the move aims to provide wider representation and address long-standing demands from different communities.

With this change, Karnataka joins a group of states that have gone beyond the 50 percent ceiling on quotas set by the Supreme Court, citing special circumstances. The decision is expected to spark debates on social justice and constitutional limits.

Community leaders welcomed the move but also urged the government to ensure proper implementation so that benefits reach the intended groups. Opposition parties, meanwhile, have questioned whether the increase will stand legal scrutiny.