CM Revanth Reddy Honors Konda Laxman Bapuji and Padmashali Community
Hyderabad: Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy praised Konda Laxman Bapuji for his sacrifices for Telangana. He criticized the previous government for not paying respects to Bapuji after his death. The CM announced that Asifabad Medical College would be named after Konda Laxman Bapuji.
Speaking at the All India Padmashali Mahasabha at Exhibition Grounds on Sunday, Revanth Reddy praised the Padmashali community. He highlighted their self-respect and sacrifices, stating that Konda Laxman Bapuji was a great example. He emphasized that Telangana’s formation benefited all sections of society.
Revanth Reddy pointed out that while many people became MLAs and MPs through the Telangana movement, only Konda Laxman Bapuji sacrificed his MLA and minister’s post. Bapuji refused any position until Telangana was achieved, inspiring many.
The CM recalled that Bapuji had allowed a party leading the Telangana movement to use his Jala Drushyam residence. However, when he passed away, the leaders of that party did not visit to pay their respects. He said this showed their disregard for the Padmashali community. He also mentioned that the party formed by Ale Narendra, the Telangana Sadhana Samithi, was merged into another party to deny credit to the Padmashalis. Revanth Reddy reminded that the Congress government under Manmohan Singh had made Narendra a Union Minister.
Revanth Reddy assured the Padmashalis of his support, urging them to approach him in any situation. He accused the previous government of not clearing pending bills for Bathukamma saris. He also mentioned his efforts to bring the Indian Institute of Handlooms and Technology to Hyderabad and name it after Konda Laxman Bapuji. He confirmed that Asifabad Medical College would soon bear Bapuji’s name.
Criticizing opposition parties for claiming errors in the caste census, Revanth Reddy warned that BCs (Backward Classes) should not fall into the traps of BJP and BRS. He assured that the caste census would benefit them. He stated, “I have no tensions or bad habits. My only dedication is to serve society. I will work for you 24 hours a day and contribute to your development.”
The CM revealed that, according to the caste census, BCs make up 56.33% of Telangana’s population. He said a resolution was sent to the Center, putting pressure on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He credited the Congress party for BCs receiving 27% reservations when Indira Gandhi implemented the Mandal Commission.
Revanth Reddy addressed concerns over reservation data, stating that KCR’s survey showed 21% upper caste population, while the Congress survey reported 15.28%. He urged people to analyze these figures carefully. He also assured that his government would remove the 50% cap on reservations to ensure fair representation.
