Hyderabad: B Vinod Kumar, a senior leader of BRS, believes the Backward Classes Bill could be quickly passed in Parliament if Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi genuinely support it.
At a press conference, Vinod Kumar highlighted ongoing discussions about increasing BC reservations in the state. He mentioned that the Chief Minister and ministers plan to visit Delhi to press for the bill’s approval. Addressing public concerns over local elections, he stated, “We know an ordinance won’t pass if it’s similar to the BC Bill. Why are Congress and BJP misleading the BCs?” He noted that the Supreme Court, in the Indira Sawhney case, capped reservations at 50%, and increasing them would require inclusion in the Ninth Schedule.
Vinod Kumar explained that placing crucial items in the Ninth Schedule began under Jawaharlal Nehru’s leadership. “We argue that BC reservations should be included there from the start,” he said. He claimed that if Modi and Rahul were committed, Parliament could approve the reservation increase swiftly. “Modi lacks sincerity, and Rahul Gandhi won’t push for it,” he alleged, suggesting that Rahul could propose a Private Bill for BC reservations.
He also mentioned that amending Article 243D could allow for more BC reservations. “If Modi is earnest, it can happen,” he insisted. He emphasized that Government Orders and ordinances can’t increase BC reservations. He recalled KCR’s past efforts, sending a resolution to the Centre for increased BC representation in legislatures. Vinod Kumar suggested discussing the resolutions sent by KCR and Revanth Reddy in Parliament. Instead of holding dharnas in Delhi, Revanth could collaborate with Rahul Gandhi to pressure Modi effectively.
