Hyderabad: The BRS decided to support the Women’s Reservation Bill while opposing any delimitation that could harm the interests of southern states.
Party chief K. Chandrashekhar Rao held a meeting with senior leaders, including working president K.T. Rama Rao and T. Harish Rao, at his Erravelli residence. The discussion focused on the upcoming Parliament session scheduled from April 16 to 18.
Sources said the leadership directed party MPs in the Rajya Sabha to back the Women’s Reservation Bill. The party has four members in the Upper House.
Women’s Reservation Bill support with caution on delimitation
The BRS reiterated its long-standing support for women’s reservation. Earlier, the party passed a resolution in the Telangana Assembly backing reservations for women and implemented quotas in local bodies.
However, the leadership adopted a cautious approach on delimitation proposals. It stated that any exercise reducing the representation of southern states would not be acceptable.
K. Chandrashekhar Rao stressed the need to examine the provisions of the bill before taking a final decision. He expressed concern that delimitation based on the 2011 Census could reduce the South’s share in Parliament.
Currently, southern states account for around 24 per cent of Lok Sabha seats. He said this share should not decline and ideally should increase, given the region’s contribution to national development and population control.
The party indicated that it would oppose delimitation if it reduces southern representation. At the same time, it signalled support for seat expansion if it maintains the existing share.
KCR directed leaders not to rush into a decision and to study the bill in detail once introduced. The party will finalise its stand after a detailed review.
The meeting also reviewed preparations for a public meeting in Jagtial on April 20 and the party’s Formation Day celebrations on April 27.