Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy reiterated his commitment to the BC caste census and 42% reservations during a crucial meeting with Backward Class (BC) leaders. He challenged BJP’s opposition and urged unity in demanding political and economic rights.
HYDERABAD: Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy held a crucial meeting with Backward Class (BC) leaders at Praja Bhavan on Saturday, discussing the BC caste census and the proposed 42% reservations for the community.
The meeting was attended by Deputy CM Bhatti Vikramarka, TPCC president Mahesh Kumar Goud, Minister Ponnam Prabhakar, former MP V. Hanumantha Rao, MP Anil Kumar Yadav, and several BC MLAs and MLCs. Discussions focused on legal measures for implementing 42% reservations and strategies to push the reservation bill forward.
The Telangana government has been actively conducting a comprehensive caste survey, with plans to introduce legislation on BC reservations in the upcoming Assembly session. Further developments on the issue are expected in the coming weeks.
Revanth Reddy Slams Opposition, Challenges BJP on Caste Census
Reaffirming his commitment, CM Revanth Reddy stated that the Congress government conducted the caste census as promised, despite challenges. He referenced Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s stance, calling the census an “X-ray” essential for social justice.
Criticising previous administrations, Revanth Reddy accused them of withholding caste data for electoral gains. He stated that, unlike past surveys, the current government had formed a ministerial sub-committee and assigned the Planning Department to oversee a systematic enumeration.
BJP’s Opposition and Call for National Caste Census
Responding to BJP leaders’ claims about the census’ accuracy, Revanth Reddy challenged them to identify specific errors instead of making broad allegations. He accused the BJP of attempting to derail the caste census, fearing its political impact.
Taking a direct jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Revanth Reddy pointed out that OBC benefits for Muslims exist in Gujarat, questioning why similar provisions were opposed in Telangana. He highlighted disparities in previous estimates, noting that the TRS (now BRS) survey reported BCs at 51%, whereas the latest caste census placed them at 56.33%.
Revanth Reddy urged BC leaders to hold meetings and pass resolutions by March 10, ensuring unity in demanding political and economic rights. He declared that the caste census report would serve as the “Bible, Bhagavad Gita, and Quran” for weaker sections, forming the foundation for future policies.
With political tensions rising over caste-based reservations, the Telangana government’s commitment to the BC caste census has intensified the debate ahead of the upcoming legislative decisions.
