It has even blamed government of being shy in declaring the schemes as ‘Muslim-oriented’ for fear of opposition campaign of community appeasement.
A study conducted by the Centre for Equity Studies, headed by NAC member Harsh Mander said the timidity on the Muslim-word led to schemes being dubbed as “minority” or “area based”, thereby diluting targeted community approach.
The report asked the government to openly resolve to improve the lot of Muslims by making a dedicated 14% budgetary allocation for the community on the lines of sub-plans for SCs and STs.
Following the study, the NAC has sought a detailed response from the minority affairs ministry.
The report questions the efficacy of schemes launched for amelioration of minorities — in education, self-employment and infrastructure.
The has blamed UPA’s fear of fuelling the BJP’s appeasement campaign as the undoing of its good intent post-Sachar. In a strong remark, Mander said the Centre could be worried about political consequences of siding with a globally stigmatized community.
It said despite the focus on Muslim districts, the community was not benefitting as officials were often under direction to avoid Muslim villages in plans designed by them. The government’s fear in talking of “Muslim” welfare led to reluctance in implementing authorities.
Congress launched the new ministry of Minority affairs in UPA-1 as part of its minority outreach after appointing Sachar Commission to detail social status of Muslims. The move contributed significantly in Muslim polarization in the party’s favour in Lok Sabha polls.