Khammam: The Central Government’s recent decision to carry out a nationwide caste census came after strong efforts by the Telangana Government and the Congress party, said Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka on Saturday.
Speaking at a ceremony organized by the BC Employees’ Association and other Backward Classes (BC) community leaders, Bhatti called it a big win for the people of Telangana.
He explained that India hasn’t held a caste census since 1930. Telangana became the first state after independence to conduct one successfully. The state used a scientific and transparent approach, setting an example for the rest of the country.
“This is a people’s government,” Bhatti said. “We completed a full caste survey in Telangana without protests or objections. The data from this survey will now guide our future policies.”
He thanked the Telangana Assembly for passing a resolution to grant 42% reservations to BCs. This proposal was sent to the Central Government, adding more pressure to act. Bhatti emphasized that the survey results should be shared widely and that BC communities must support this move.
He also pointed out that during a Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting in Gujarat, a resolution was passed to demand a caste census across the country. The Congress party then raised the issue in Parliament, leading the Centre to finally agree.
A formal letter was also sent to the Prime Minister, urging the Centre to act. CWC President Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi strongly supported the idea and played key roles in pushing the agenda forward.
Bhatti stressed that implementing 42% BC reservations is only possible under a government that truly represents the people. He praised Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and his cabinet for working sincerely toward this goal.
The event in Khammam saw participation from prominent leaders of many BC communities, including Pothagani Venkanna, Goud, Yadav, Nai Brahmin, Rajaka, Padmashali, Vishwakarma, Shalivahana, and Kapu groups.
