Hyderabad: The ongoing discussion about BC reservation highlights challenges for smaller, scattered communities in Telangana. Among the 130 Backward Classes castes, only about 20 to 25 are traditionally dominant, securing government benefits. The others struggle to advocate for their share.
During public hearings by the BC Commission across the state, it became evident that a few select castes receive most of the reservation advantages, leaving many without. Disadvantaged castes questioned the commission on when they might see benefits in their lifetimes.
The BC Commission is waiting for the state’s SEEEPC (Social, Education, Employment, Economic, Political, Caste) survey report, hoping for fairer outcomes. They also anticipate a 300-page report from the Independent Expert Working Group (IEWG).
The IEWG evaluated the survey, ranking castes using a Composite Backwardness Index (CBI). This new analytical model measures socio-economic backwardness, giving each caste a CBI score and rank. It provides a relative backwardness ranking among castes, which the group believes is an objective statistical approach.
The BC Commission intends to use these rankings to identify disadvantaged castes under current provisions and ensure benefits reach those who deserve them. “We will prioritize these castes based on rankings to ensure they finally receive benefits. It’s crucial that this effort is not in vain,” a commission member stated.
