The BJP government’s decision to scrap the 4 percent Muslim quota – and divide it between the Lingayat and Vokkaliga communities – has become a major talking point in the Karnataka poll campaign. While the BJP claims to have undone a wrong, the Congress has used it to present itself as a champion of social justice.

In an interview with Atul Chaurasia, former chief minister and Congress leader M Veerappa Moily says the Muslim quota was not for minority appeasement but based on socio-economic indicators. Reiterating the party’s demand for a caste census, he says it is a prerequisite for effective implementation of welfare schemes.

Dismissing reports about infighting within the state Congress, Moily says there is no tussle between party leaders Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar for the chief ministerial post. On the disproportionate assets case against Shivakumar, Moily says he is confident that he will be cleared of all charges. There is a difference between allegations of corruption and disproportionate assets, he claims.

Watch.