Article Today, Hyderabad:
Intense concern is emerging across Telangana over the uncertainty surrounding the 42 per cent BC reservation. The bill, which had been approved in the state assembly, has been stalled due to court proceedings, leaving the community frustrated. The Telangana BC Community Struggle Association has called for a massive dharna at Indira Park on Friday, 24 October, to protest this perceived injustice. Although state-wide bandhs and rallies have attempted to pressure the government, the responses from both the central and state authorities are being criticised as insufficient.
Ninth Schedule Demand at the Centre
The primary reason for the delay in implementing the 42 per cent BC reservation is the repeated rejection by the central government of the demand to include the bill in the Ninth Schedule. This stance has sparked widespread anger among BC communities, highlighting what they perceive as entrenched caste bias in political decision-making. The bandh on 18 October saw shops and public transport shut across the state, yet the absence of concrete government action has further deepened discontent. The dharna at Indira Park will see BC participants converge from 33 districts, representing another strategic push to strengthen pressure on authorities.
Political Dimensions of the Protest
The government’s stance on BC reservation has drawn criticism for appearing politically motivated. While local leaders of the BRS and BJP extended support to the bandhs, the central government’s repeated rejection of the Ninth Schedule inclusion is seen as a calculated political move. Opposition parties, including Congress, have alleged that the BJP’s approach reflects growing caste bias under its administration. Leaders stress that failure to protect the rights of BCs, who comprise 52 per cent of the state population, is a serious injustice that demands immediate redress.
Support from Intellectuals and Leaders
Several prominent figures are expected to attend the dharna to show solidarity. Former IAS officer T. Chiranjeevi, retired High Court judge Eshwarayya, and Visharadhan Maharaju will participate as guests of honour. Key leaders of the Telangana BC Community Struggle Association, including Kasetti Lakshman, Koduri Chandraya, Kadarla Narasayya, Mool Bhaskar Goud, and Adepu Lakshminarayana, will lead the event. Their involvement is anticipated to add momentum and legitimacy to the protest, reinforcing the collective voice of the BC community.
Call for Unity
The association has emphasised that full participation from BC communities across the 33 districts is crucial for the success of the dharna. Leaders stress that this protest is pivotal for safeguarding the future rights of BCs. They have warned that continued government inaction could trigger more intense struggles in the coming months. In the interest of social justice and the protection of fundamental rights, the current dharna is being positioned as a key moment to demonstrate unity and resilience within the BC community.
