Hyderabad: The statewide BC bandh across Telangana on Saturday marked, according to organisers, the start of a new social movement demanding 42% reservations in proportion to the Backward Classes population.
The protest, led by the BC Reservations Sadhana Samakhya Joint Action Committee (JAC) under chairman Dundra Kumaraswamy, disrupted public transport, schools, and business activity across major towns and cities. Meanwhile, large rallies began at the Somajiguda Press Club and moved towards Khairatabad Junction, drawing participation from over 40 caste-based associations.
JAC leaders said the shutdown was not just a protest but the launch of a long-term campaign for social justice, equal rights, and political representation. They described the movement as a “historic awakening” in the fight for BC empowerment.
BC bandh highlights call for vote-based political assertion
Moreover, the campaign gained strength through youth involvement, women’s participation, and a growing ideological awareness across BC communities. Leaders stressed that the demand for 42% reservations was based on constitutional principles and population data, not symbolic politics.
Throughout the day, slogans such as “Justice for BCs—Reservations in proportion to population” and “BC vote for BCs” resonated through the rallies. Leaders urged BC voters to use their vote as Ambedkar’s “diamond weapon” to secure rightful representation in governance.