Quota row: PM to consult parties for concensus

The government is said to be preparing for phased implementation of proposals that are aimed at mollifying the agitating students.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is expected to start consultations with political parties from Wednesday on the issue of OBC quota in elite educational institutions.

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The government is said to be preparing for phased implementation of proposals that are aimed at mollifying the agitating students of forward castes.

Government sources said the proposal, especially for the increase in seats, is planned to be implemented in phases to cushion the effect of reservation.

The Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs took stock of the situation on Monday night and deliberated on ways and means to go ahead with the reservation following up on the Constitution Amendment that has already been passed by Parliament.

"As Parliament has already passed the law on OBC quota, there is no question of going back", a senior Minister said adding the issue was also on the Common Minimum Programme of the Congress-led coalition.

The Prime Minister, he said would be talking to political parties to see that the proposal was implemented without any confrontation in society.

The increase in number of seats may be effected over a period of years keeping in mind the need for strengthening infrastructure.