Hyderabad, February 16: The Telangana State Legislative Assembly passed a resolution on Friday for conducting a comprehensive caste survey, focusing particularly on the backward classes. The initiative aims to assess various aspects including social, economic, educational, employment, political, and caste status of the people.
The resolution was approved after a lengthy debate where opposition parties suggested passing a Bill instead. However, the Congress government dismissed the need for legislation, emphasizing the resolution’s sufficiency.
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy intervened, accusing opposition members of trying to sow doubt regarding the government’s commitment to the survey. He clarified that the decision stemmed from extensive discussions within the State Cabinet to ensure systematic empowerment of backward classes.
Minister Ponnam Prabhakar affirmed the government’s allocation of Rs 150 crore for the survey, assuring additional funds if needed. He emphasized sincerity over legislation in conducting the survey transparently, welcoming input from stakeholders.
Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka hailed the resolution as a significant step, promising further programs for backward classes, including the Congress’s BC sub-plan.
Opposition members pressed for details on survey logistics, advocating for legal backing similar to Bihar’s model. BRS MLA K.T. Rama Rao proposed legislation for the survey, suggesting judicial oversight by a committee headed by a High Court judge.
The session witnessed demands for an all-party meeting to elucidate survey modalities and calls for transparency regarding past surveys conducted by the previous government.
