Why is KTR Demanding Answers from Rahul Gandhi Over BC Reservation Cuts in Telangana?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a recent outburst, K. T. Rama Rao of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi has challenged Rahul Gandhi regarding the significant decrease in reservation for Backward Classes in Telangana's upcoming Gram Panchayat elections. With critical questions about financial accountability and promises made, this controversy highlights the ongoing political tug-of-war in the state.
Key Takeaways
- K. T. Rama Rao challenges Rahul Gandhi over BC reservation cuts.
- Reservation reduced from 24% to 17% for the upcoming elections.
- Initial promise of 42% reservation remains unfulfilled.
- Gram Panchayat elections scheduled for December 11, 14, and 17.
- High Court's ruling affects local body election procedures.
Hyderabad, Nov 26 (NationPress) Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president K. T. Rama Rao on Wednesday pressed Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for clarification regarding the reduction of reservation for Backward Classes in the upcoming Gram Panchayat elections in Telangana.
He questioned the rationale behind the Congress government slashing the reservation for Backward Classes (BCs) from 24 percent to 17 percent, and where the promised 42 percent reservation has gone.
KTR, as the BRS leader is commonly known, took to 'X' to criticize the Congress party for the cut in the BC quota for Gram Panchayats.
"Hello Rahul Gandhi Ji, you spoke passionately about the Telangana caste census and touted it as a model for other states. The Congress government allocated Rs 160 crore with a commitment of 42 percent reservation for the BC community. Yet, only 17 percent was delivered to the BC community (down from 24 percent) in the recently announced elections for Panchayats! Could you enlighten us on the logic behind squandering public funds on this ineffective endeavor?" KTR questioned.
The Telangana State Election Commission on Tuesday released a notification for the Gram Panchayat elections, set to occur in three phases next month.
According to the notification, elections will take place on December 11, 14, and 17 for 12,728 positions of sarpanchs and 1,12,242 wards.
Around 1.66 crore voters in rural areas are eligible to participate in these elections.
The SEC has allocated 17.08 percent reservation in Gram Panchayats for Backward Classes (BCs). Of the total 12,735 Gram Panchayats, 2,176 have been reserved for BCs.
Among the 31 districts holding elections, Siddipet boasts the highest BC reservation at 26.772. In Bhadradri Kothagudem, no Gram Panchayat has been reserved for BCs.
The government had issued a directive for 42 percent reservation for BCs in local bodies, and based on this, an election notification was issued on September 29 for elections to Gram Panchayats, Mandal Parishad Territorial Constituencies (MPTCs), and Zilla Parishad Territorial Constituencies (ZPTCs).
However, the High Court overturned the government order, leading to the suspension of the election notification.
The Telangana Cabinet on November 17 resolved to proceed only with the Gram Panchayat elections in December, as the Rs 3,000 crore grant from the Centre is due to expire by March 31, 2026.
It was declared that the decision regarding the holding of MPTCs, ZPTCs, and municipal corporations will be made following the High Court's final verdict on the 42 percent reservation for BCs.
According to the interim order of the High Court, local body elections must be conducted with a 50 percent cap on total reservation for all demographics.
Point of View
Where the reduction of reservation for Backward Classes has sparked significant debate. It brings to light the importance of accountability among political leaders in fulfilling promises made to communities. As the elections approach, these discussions will shape voter sentiment and influence the political landscape.
NationPress
26/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted KTR's demand for answers from Rahul Gandhi?
KTR is questioning the Congress party's decision to reduce the reservation for Backward Classes from 24% to 17% in the upcoming Gram Panchayat elections.
What was the original promise regarding BC reservation?
The Congress government had initially promised 42% reservation for Backward Classes in local bodies.
When are the Gram Panchayat elections scheduled?
The elections are set to take place on December 11, 14, and 17.
How many posts are up for election in the Gram Panchayat elections?
There are a total of 12,728 sarpanch positions and 1,12,242 wards to be contested.
What is the significance of the High Court's ruling?
The High Court's interim order mandates that local body elections must adhere to a 50% cap on total reservation for all sections.
