HYDERABAD: The Telangana High Court has issued a pivotal directive to the state government, instructing it to ensure that agricultural laborers in urban municipal areas are included under the Indiramma Aathmeeya Bharosa scheme. This scheme currently provides an annual benefit of ₹12,000 to rural agricultural laborers, including those without land.
The ruling came in response to a petition filed by Gavinoolla Srinivas from Narayanapet, who argued that agricultural laborers residing in municipal areas were being unfairly excluded from the scheme. Advocate Chikkudu Prabhakar, representing the petitioner, highlighted that Telangana has 129 municipalities with over 800,000 agricultural laborers who do not receive the scheme’s benefits.
Court’s Observations
The High Court acknowledged the petitioner’s arguments, emphasizing the need for equitable treatment of all agricultural laborers, irrespective of their location. The court directed Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari to implement measures ensuring the inclusion of urban agricultural laborers in the scheme.
Government’s Response
In its defense, the state government stated that the scheme was originally designed to support rural agricultural laborers, particularly those without land. Officials also noted that applications for the scheme have already been received and are under process.
Significance of the Ruling
This decision is expected to have a significant impact, as it addresses the disparity in benefits between rural and urban laborers. By extending the scheme to agricultural laborers in municipal areas, the ruling aims to uphold the principles of equality and social justice.
Next Steps
The High Court has directed the state government to take appropriate measures and ensure compliance with the order. The decision has brought hope to thousands of urban agricultural laborers who have long been excluded from such welfare initiatives.
Stay tuned for further updates as the government outlines its course of action in response to the High Court’s directive.