Union minister does U-turn after saying no ST quota for Goa House

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale has apologized and expressed support for the demand of Scheduled Tribes (ST) in Goa for political reservation. Athawale initially stated that reservation for STs in Goa was not possible due to their small population. However, after being informed that STs constitute 12% of the state’s population, he changed his stance and pledged to work towards fulfilling their demand. Athawale also discussed other demands, including a caste-based census and increased reservation for SCs and STs, during his meeting with the Chief Minister of Goa.