The Gomantak Bhandari Samaj has demanded for an exclusive 20% reservation for the Bhandari community across various sectors, including education and legislative assembly. During a press conference on Friday, the group highlighted the necessity of this reservation, emphasizing that the Bhandari community constitutes a significant proportion of the OBC population.
With the current OBC reservation standing at 27%, the proposed bifurcation seeks to accommodate 19 communities, with plans to incorporate two more. Among these communities, the Bhandari group holds a substantial demographic within the OBC category. Estimates suggest that in Goa alone, the Bhandari community comprises approximately 5-6 lakh individuals.
The Bhandari Samaj underscored the need for a 20% reservation, citing their substantial representation within the OBC populace. The proposal allocates the remaining 7% for other communities.
In addition to this demand, the Gomantak Bhandari Samaj announced the commencement of a mass awareness campaign starting from 3rd March 2024. This initiative, organized by twelve groups, aims to advocate for the rights and welfare of the OBC community across every taluka.