How is Telangana Congress Seeking Public Support for 42% BC Quota?
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Synopsis
The Telangana Congress, led by Meenakshi Natrajan, is mobilizing public support for a 42% reservation for Backward Classes. This initiative is highlighted through the Janahita Padyatra, aiming to create awareness and pressure the Centre for legislative approval.
Key Takeaways
- 42% reservation for Backward Classes is a key demand.
- The padyatra aims to enhance public engagement.
- Community service initiatives will be part of the campaign.
- Prominent leaders are actively participating.
- The movement underscores the importance of social justice.
Hyderabad, July 31 (NationPress) - Meenakshi Natrajan, the AICC in-charge for Telangana, has called upon the public to rally in favor of a 42 percent reservation for Backward Classes.
She emphasized the importance of community support in compelling the Centre to ratify two crucial Bills passed by the Telangana Assembly, which advocate for 42 percent BC reservation in education, employment, and local governance.
During her address at the Janahita Padyatra, initiated by the Congress party to engage with citizens ahead of the approaching local body elections, she urged collaboration with the Congress to amplify this demand.
Accompanied by Mahesh Kumar Goud, president of the Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC), Natrajan commenced the padyatra in the Pargi constituency of Vikarabad district.
The AICC representative highlighted that the Congress party is dedicated to achieving social justice, asserting that any successful movement requires the backing of the populace.
She also announced a planned dharna outside Parliament on August 6, demanding the implementation of 42 percent BC reservation.
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has pledged to advocate for BC reservations by applying pressure on the BJP-led government at the Centre, with plans to be in Delhi from August 5 to 7.
Accusing the Centre of misleading BC communities regarding reservation matters, Reddy announced a major dharna at Jantar Mantar on August 6.
Mahesh Kumar Goud voiced that the Congress party remains deeply integrated with the community. He addressed criticisms regarding the necessity of the padyatra despite Congress' governance, stating the party's commitment to understanding the people's conditions, a tradition upheld from Mahatma Gandhi to Rahul Gandhi.
The TPCC chief noted that Revanth Reddy's ascent to the Chief Minister's position was the result of numerous struggles and movements, asserting that padyatras are vital for gauging public sentiment.
He criticized BRS leader K. Kavitha for her claims regarding BC reservations and questioned her actions during the absence of female ministers in the BRS Cabinet from 2014 to 2018.
Commending the current Chief Minister, Goud remarked that despite his affiliation with the Reddy community, he champions the rights of Backward Classes.
Minister for Industries and IT, D. Sridhar Babu, clarified that this padyatra is not election-driven but aimed at community engagement.
The initial phase of the padyatra will last until August 4, resuming after the Congress leaders return from Delhi.
Throughout the padyatra, Congress leaders will stay in villages, listen to residents' concerns, and participate in community service initiatives known as Shramadanam.
The campaign will cover one constituency in each of the six former districts during its first phase, with a daily 10-kilometer padyatra starting at 5 PM and an overnight stay in the village.
The following day will feature Shramadanam until 11 AM, followed by interactions with local Congress leaders and elected representatives at 3 PM.
Prominent figures including ministers, MPs, MLAs, MLCs, and senior district leaders will engage in the program.
Point of View
The demand for a 42% reservation for Backward Classes in Telangana reflects a broader struggle for equity and representation. The Congress party's efforts could potentially reshape local governance and empower marginalized communities, an issue of national significance that requires attention and dialogue.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the padyatra?
The padyatra aims to engage with the public and gather support for the demand of 42% reservation for Backward Classes.
Who is leading the padyatra?
Meenakshi Natrajan, the AICC in-charge for Telangana, is leading the padyatra along with the TPCC president, Mahesh Kumar Goud.
When will the dharna outside Parliament take place?
The dharna is scheduled for August 6 to demand the approval of BC reservations.
What is Shramadanam?
Shramadanam refers to community service initiatives that Congress leaders will engage in during the padyatra.
How long will the padyatra last?
The first phase of the padyatra is set to continue until August 4, with plans to resume after the leaders return from Delhi.
