Hyderabad: Union Minister Kishan Reddy and Malkajgiri MP Etala Rajender praised MRPS leader Manda Krishna Madiga for his tireless work towards social justice. They spoke at an event called ‘Alai Balai’, where they highlighted his efforts in the fight for Scheduled Caste (SC) classification.
The movement, which began in the Telugu region 30 years ago, has grown under Manda Krishna’s leadership, spreading to Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu. Reddy noted Manda Krishna’s 15 years of active legislative work, emphasizing his dedication to SC classification and his advocacy for the disabled and those with heart conditions.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), under Reddy’s guidance, pushed the SC classification issue to the Supreme Court and involved Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Through legal consultations and Cabinet discussions, the efforts of MRPS and Dandora activists led to a successful policy outcome.
Reddy shared a memorable moment from the MRPS Vishwaroop Mahasabha at Parade Ground, where Prime Minister Modi called himself an ‘activist’. This remark lifted the spirits of SCs and reinforced the government’s support. Reddy called Manda Krishna a close friend and praised his bravery despite facing threats and protests.
Under BJP leadership, with support from V Rama Rao and PM Modi, SC classification was officially addressed. The Indian government awarded Manda Krishna the Padma Shri for his social justice contributions. Reddy also mentioned Manda Krishna’s new campaigns, like increased pensions for the disabled, and highlighted the government’s decision to conduct a caste census along with the national population census for the first time since Independence.
Reddy also mentioned other initiatives, including honoring Dr. B.R. Ambedkar with the Bharat Ratna, displaying his portrait in Parliament, and providing 5 kg of free rice monthly to those in need. He encouraged Manda Krishna to continue leading social movements, affirming the BJP’s dedication to inclusive governance.
MP Etala Rajender described Padma Shri Manda Krishna Madiga as a central figure in Telangana’s social justice fight. He called him a “child of the Telangana nation” for his strong leadership.
Etala recalled knowing Manda Krishna since 1986 and praised his dedication to public causes, especially his push for children’s heart surgeries and pensions for the disabled and elderly. He credited the Arogya Sri health scheme to these efforts rather than government initiative.
Despite his long journey, Manda Krishna continues to push for change, especially in fulfilling pension promises by the Congress government. Rajender mentioned that while Manda Krishna could have joined the Rajya Sabha, his focus remains on improving society.
