State Cong Govt starts discussions with stakeholders as promised in manifesto
M Alam, NEWS PRISM BUREAU
HYDERABAD- In line with the electoral promises made by the Congress party in Telangana, the state government has embarked on consultations regarding the implementation of a caste-based census. This move aims to address the needs of the weaker sections of society by providing accurate data for effective policymaking and resource allocation.
The decision to pursue a caste-based census was a key component of the Congress’s manifesto during the Telangana Assembly elections. With the formation of the Revanth Reddy government, steps are now being taken to fulfill this commitment.
Rahul Gandhi, during the Lok Sabha election campaign, reiterated the party’s pledge to conduct a caste-based census once the election process concluded. Now, with the government in place, consultations have begun with various stakeholders to facilitate the commencement of the census.
The Telangana Commission for Backward Classes has initiated discussions with intellectuals, professors, ex-IAS officers, activists, and professionals to gather insights for the census. B Bala Maya Devi, member secretary of the commission, emphasized the importance of seeking public opinion through committees formed for this purpose.
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has instructed the BC Commission to draft an action plan for the census, highlighting the government’s commitment to this endeavour. Additionally, there are calls for legislation to ensure the cooperation of all government departments in the census process.
The formation of a 7-member committee for social and economic survey has been recommended by the People’s Committee on Census. This committee, comprising eminent academicians and retired IAS officers, aims to provide expertise and guidance for the successful implementation of the census.
Rahul Gandhi has expressed confidence that a caste-based census will provide a comprehensive understanding of the population dynamics, particularly concerning SCs, STs, and OBCs. Such data, he believes, will serve as an essential tool for addressing the needs of marginalized communities.
In Telangana, where minorities currently receive 4% reservation in education and employment, the census is expected to shed light on their educational and economic backwardness. This data could have implications for reservation policies, especially considering the pending matter in the Supreme Court.
The efforts towards a caste-based census in Telangana reflect a broader aim of ensuring equitable representation and opportunities for all sections of society. As consultations progress and plans take shape, the state government remains committed to fulfilling its promise of inclusive governance.