Going below minimum in an empty case can be disasterous.

That is why people developed loads using Cream of Wheat and other fillers, placed in the case on top of the powder charge, thereby keeping the powder down next to the primer.

I would be willing to bet that more reduced powder loads have been shot with NO ill effects, than the number that has resulted in disaster.

From my experience with handloading/reloading, it is when someone decides to skip a step that problems develope.