Telangana CM Revanth Reddy Calls for BC Unity on Reservations
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has urged the Backward Classes (BC) community to stand together against attempts to suppress their rights. Speaking at the 17th All India Padmashali and 8th Telangana Padmashali Mahasabha, he highlighted Telangana’s efforts to provide 42% reservations for BCs in education, jobs, and politics.
He stressed the importance of caste-based enumeration and the need to relax the 50% reservation cap to ensure social justice. “Telangana is leading the way in pushing for the removal of this limit,” he said.
Defending the Caste Census
Revanth Reddy defended his government’s decision to conduct a caste census within its first year. He criticized those opposing it, saying they were doing so without valid reasons. “Reservations will give BCs more power in governance, which is why some vested interests are trying to block them,” he stated.
Support for Weavers and BC Empowerment
The Chief Minister acknowledged the Padmashali community’s role in Telangana’s development and assured continued government support for traditional professions like weaving. He promised to treat weavers on par with farmers.
In a major announcement, he said that 65 lakh self-help group members would receive two high-quality sarees annually, with production entrusted to the Padmashali community. “We have cleared pending dues for Bathukamma sarees, power bills, and insurance left unpaid by the previous government,” he added.
Honoring Telangana’s Leaders
Revanth Reddy paid tribute to Telangana activist Konda Laxman Bapuji by renaming the Indian Institute of Handloom Technology in his honor. He also mentioned that the government would consider renaming the Asifabad Medical College after him.
Support for Padmashalis in Maharashtra
Recognizing the Padmashali community living outside Telangana, the Chief Minister announced a ₹1 crore grant for constructing Markandeya Bhavan in Solapur, Maharashtra, where many Padmashali families reside. He assured similar support for communities in Bhiwandi and Worli.
The event was attended by Ministers Tummala Nageswara Rao, Mineral Development Corporation Chairman Eravatri Anil, and several Padmashali leaders, who reiterated their demand for 42% reservations and more government support for BC welfare.
