This paper presents the analysis of the UPA, Muslims and equality of opportunity (2004-14). It discusses religion and state, and how religion and religious identities are politicised in government policies in India. The election of the UPA in 2004 marked a turning point in the provision of equality of opportunity for religious minorities in India, with government committed to full equality of opportunity for them. The gross under-representation of Muslims in public sector employment was highlighted both by the Sachar Committee Report and the report of the Ranganath Misra Commission. Despite the high profile recommendations to address this imbalance, and considerable efforts by the UPA, the policy process and the monitoring data show no improvement in Muslim employment in the state sector. This paper will critically evaluate the initiatives undertaken, and reflect on the outcomes within the context of the broader approach of the state towards religious minorities, especially Muslims.
