Telangana CM Revanth Reddy Vows to Push for Caste-Based Census and Quota Expansion
Hyderabad: Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy reiterated Congress’s commitment to forcing the central government to include a caste count in the national census next year, which he believes will pave the way for expanding political, educational, and employment reservations beyond the 50% cap.
Speaking at the Children’s Day celebrations on Thursday, Reddy emphasized the importance of the ongoing caste survey in Telangana, calling it crucial to ensuring fair allocation of resources and reservations based on population proportions. He dismissed rumors that the survey could jeopardize government benefits, clarifying that the exercise would instead enhance the benefits for eligible beneficiaries.
Reddy referred to the caste survey as a “mega health check-up for society,” with the goal of providing more targeted welfare schemes to the public based on accurate demographic data. He stressed that this initiative is in line with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s election promise and would support the government’s broader social welfare objectives.
Touching upon education, Reddy assured that stringent actions would be taken against those who supply substandard goods to government-run residential schools, with jail terms for those found guilty. He highlighted increased funding for the residential schools, particularly aimed at improving food and basic facilities for students.
The caste survey, which began on November 6, is seen as a key step in achieving Congress’s vision for a more inclusive and equitable Telangana.