Telangana Inspired National Caste Census, Says Revanth
Welcomes Centre's decision on caste census, thanks Modi
Hyderabad: Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Wednesday welcomed the Central government’s decision to conduct a caste census as part of the upcoming national population census, calling it a testament to Telangana’s pioneering leadership on the issue of OBC empowerment.
In a media statement, Revanth Reddy expressed pride that Telangana’s recent caste census had set a national example. “Today, we have proved that what Telangana does today, India follows tomorrow. It is a proud moment that our leader, Rahul Gandhi’s vision has now become national policy, even while in opposition. Telangana’s actions for OBC empowerment have inspired the entire country,” the Chief Minister said.
Revanth Reddy pointed out that Telangana was the first state in independent India to conduct a comprehensive caste census last year, based on the vision of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who had first demanded a nationwide caste census during his Bharat Jodo Yatra. “The last caste census was conducted by the British in 1931. Our state-wide Social, Economic, and Caste Survey found that 56.32 per cent of the population belongs to the Backward Castes. Based on this report, tabled in the Telangana Legislative Assembly, we proposed 42 per cent reservations for OBCs in education, employment, and political representation,” he explained.
The Chief Minister recounted the Congress’ sustained efforts, including protests at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, urging the Centre to conduct a nationwide caste census. He also congratulated the Central government and thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union Cabinet for agreeing to incorporate caste enumeration in the next national census.
The ruling Congress in Telangana celebrated the Centre’s announcement, terming it a ‘victory’ for Telangana government . BC welfare minister Ponnam Prabhakar noted that the Telangana Assembly had approved the caste census report and passed legislation increasing BC reservations to 42 per cent.
“We referred the BC quota Bill to the Centre for approval and staged a dharna in Delhi demanding a national caste census along with the upcoming population census. BCs across India supported Telangana’s stance, which compelled the Centre to act,” Ponnam said.
Former MP V. Hanumantha Rao credited Rahul Gandhi’s persistent efforts, particularly during the Bharat Jodo Yatra, for building pressure on the BJP-led central government. “The BC community nationwide rallied behind Rahul Gandhi to demand the caste census,” he noted.
BC Welfare Association president and BJP MP R. Krishnaiah attributed the Centre's decision to decades of relentless advocacy by BC groups. “Our long struggle has finally borne fruit. We thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi for taking this crucial decision,” Krishnaiah stated.
