Article Today, Hyderabad:
A 24-year-old BC youth, identified as Sai Eshwarachari, who had attempted self-immolation allegedly in protest against the delay in extending 42% reservation to Backward Classes, died on Friday while undergoing treatment at the Gandhi Hospital here. The incident has triggered widespread protests by BC organisations across Telangana.
Background to the Protest
According to protest leaders, Mr. Eshwarachari took the extreme step on Thursday after claiming that promises made on increasing BC reservations had not been fulfilled even months after the formation of the new government. He suffered severe burn injuries and was shifted to the Gandhi Hospital, where he succumbed despite medical intervention. However, the government has not officially commented on the specific circumstances that led to the incident.
Protests Near Hospital
Following news of the death, hundreds of activists from various BC associations gathered at the hospital premises from early morning. Tension prevailed as slogans were raised demanding justice and immediate action on BC reservations. The police deployed additional forces to prevent any breach of law and order.
Arrests and Police Action
As the agitation intensified, the police detained several protest leaders, including BC Joint Action Committee chairman Jajula Srinivas Goud and MLC Teenmar Mallanna. They were taken to different police stations in and around Hyderabad, including Bollaram, Tirumalagiri, Amberpet and Uppal. The police said the detentions were preventive in nature to avoid escalation of unrest.
Political Allegations
Meanwhile, BC leaders squarely blamed both the ruling Congress and the Opposition Bharatiya Janata Party for what they described as a “policy failure” on reservations. They alleged that repeated assurances on enhancing BC quota to 42% had not translated into legislative action. The leaders claimed that this had created deep frustration among BC youth.
Demands and Call for Action
In addition, BC organisations demanded immediate suspension of pending local body elections until clarity emerged on the reservation issue. They also sought a judicial inquiry into the death and demanded compensation of Rs. 1 crore to the bereaved family. There were also calls for a discussion in Parliament on the long-pending BC reservation legislation.
Political Response Awaited
However, no immediate official response was issued by the State government at the time of reporting. Political observers noted that the issue is likely to intensify in the coming days, with both treasury and Opposition benches coming under pressure to spell out their stand on BC reservations.
Tense Calm in the City
Therefore, while the situation in Hyderabad remained tense through the day, senior police officials said adequate forces had been deployed at sensitive locations to maintain peace. Further protests across the State have been announced, indicating that the political fallout of the incident is far from over.
