PMK accepts AIADMK's invitation to discuss separate quota for Vanniyars

Chennai: Pattali Makkal Katchi's special governing council, on Sunday, passed a resolution accepting AIADMK's invitation for discussions on Vanniyar reservation. The discussion for internal reservation within Most Backward Classes for the Vanniyar community in education and jobs will occur on February 3rd.

The 'unanimous' resolution states that PMK accepts the invitation and will participate in further talks with the Government. The special governing council is expected to meet again for taking decisions based on the outcome of negotiations with the Government. As per the resolution, Tamil Nadu's Higher Education Minister KP Anbazhagan, Electricity Minister P Thangamani, Minister for Municipal Administration SP Velumani, Law Minister C Shanmugham informed that the Government is ready for an internal meeting on Vanniyar reservation.

Speaking to Madhyamam, Advocate Balu, PMK Spokesperson told that they are demanding proportionate reservation for Vanniyar community. He said, "Initially we were demanding for separate reservation for Vanniyar community. After that, we have come down to separate internal reservation within the MBCs. Already we have informed the matter with senior ministers. Vanniyar is the single largest community in Tamil Nadu."

"For demanding the reservation for Vanniyars, we have lost many lives since 1987. There is no reasonable representation from the Vanniyar community within employment and educational matters. Now we are demanding the caste-wise breakup for the reservation provided for 20%. After further discussion with Ministers, PMK will decide if there is any need for further agitation or not," he added.

PMK launched protests demanding 20% reservation for Vanniyars December 1st. Within two months, it organized six stages of protests across Tamil Nadu. The resolution passed by the governing body notes Tamil Nadu's delivery of social justice as flawed. It further adds that the inequality between various communities has increased as communities on different footings competed against each other for education and jobs.

On Friday, PMK cadres held a protest near to Erode demanding 20% reservation for Vanniyars. Over 400 cadres participated in the rally to the Collectorate. They claimed that denying 20% reservation for the Vanniyar community in education and jobs is injustice as they are the largest among the backward communities.