Hyderabad: Senior Congress leader V Hanumantha Rao on Monday led a symbolic ritual at Amberpet, bathing the statue of Jyotirao Govindrao Phule with 21 pots of milk. The act, called Palabhishekam, marked what Rao said was a new century of caste-based reform in India.
42% BC Quota Tied to Phule Ideals
Rao said the ritual was a tribute to Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, who has promised 42% reservations for Backward Classes in Telangana and across India. This proposal, he said, aligns with Phule’s call for social justice based on population strength.
“Rahul Gandhi is following in Phule’s footsteps,” Rao said. “We haven’t seen Phule, but we are witnessing his vision in action.”
Congress Moves on Kamareddy Declaration
According to Rao, the Congress-led Telangana government has already acted on this promise. Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy completed a caste census and passed a bill allocating 42% reservations to BCs in local elections. The bill is now with the Governor for assent.
“I wholeheartedly welcome this move,” he said. “I see Rahul Gandhi as a 21st century Phule.”
Historical Context: Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule
Jyotirao Phule (1827–1890) founded the Satyashodhak Samaj and championed rights for women and the oppressed. His wife, Savitribai Phule, became India’s first female teacher and fought for women’s education and equality.
BCs Urged to Unite Across India
Rao recalled Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatra slogan, “Jitni abadi, utna haq,” which calls for caste-based reservations proportionate to population. He urged BCs to rally behind the Congress and demand this policy nationwide.
“The BJP in Telangana supported the bill,” Rao noted. “But the BJP’s national leaders are silent in Parliament.”
BJP Criticised Over Muslim Quota Remarks
Rao also condemned Union Minister Bandi Sanjay’s claim that the BC bill was a “Muslim Bill.” He countered that the Uttar Pradesh government already grants 5% reservation to Muslims.
“If they allow it there, why oppose it here?” Rao asked.