Reservation row poses fresh political challenge to BJP

A movement demanding replacement of caste-based reservation with economic reservation is gaining momentum across India. A protest on August 21 at Delhi's Jantar Mantar drew around 5,000 people, with several demonstrations held nationwide in the past five days. The core demand is shifting reservation criteria from caste to economic status, arguing that poverty exists across castes.

BJP faces mounting concern as the movement gains social media traction. In Bihar's Navaada district, residents removed BJP flags from homes and disposed of them publicly, signalling discontent among traditionally upper-caste voters. Protesters have repeatedly invoked Bankapur—where BJP suffered a significant by-poll defeat on August 3, ending its 30-year hold on a seat vacated by party chief Nitin Gadvi.

Analysts suggest if the reservation row evolves into a Gen-Z style mass movement, it could create similar electoral challenges for BJP across multiple states and regions where the party holds power.