Telangana CM Revanth Reddy Orders Study on Backward Classes Enumeration Procedures
Hyderabad: Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has directed the Telangana State Backward Classes Commission to conduct a detailed study on the procedures for enumerating Backward Classes (BCs) in the state. This initiative follows a meeting with the commission’s chairman, G. Niranjan, and other members, including TPCC president B. Mahesh Kumar Goud.
Emphasizing the need to learn from the methodologies employed in other states, Revanth Reddy highlighted that such an examination could provide crucial insights and help navigate potential legal challenges in Telangana. He urged the commission to commence this study promptly, ensuring its completion within a designated timeframe.
The chief minister assured the commission of the state government’s full support to facilitate a smooth and efficient enumeration process. As part of this initiative, the BC Commission has developed a comprehensive questionnaire consisting of 53 questions designed to gather information on the socio-economic and educational conditions of various castes, including minorities.
To enhance the survey’s effectiveness, the commission is seeking collaboration with research institutions such as the Centre for Economic and Social Studies (CESS), Administrative Staff College of India (ASCI), Centre for Good Governance (CGG), and the Directorate of Economics and Statistics (DES), all of which have relevant expertise in conducting similar surveys.
The Congress party had pledged to undertake a caste census during its campaign for the 2023 Assembly elections. Following their victory on December 7, 2023, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy reaffirmed this commitment, announcing plans for the census shortly thereafter. In February 2024, the state cabinet unanimously approved the proposal and allocated ₹150 crore to support this important initiative.
Through these proactive measures, the Telangana government aims to ensure a thorough and legally sound caste census, fulfilling its electoral promise and providing vital data for evidence-based policymaking and social welfare schemes aimed at assisting marginalized communities.
