Telangana's Push for 42% Reservation for Backward Classes: A Political Maneuver

Telangana's Chief Minister is seeking President Droupadi Murmu's assent to implement a 42% reservation for Backward Classes in local body elections, education, and employment. The state government, supported by Congress leaders, aims to rally support from national parties, preparing to petition the President in early August.

In a significant political move, Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy is set to request an audience with President Droupadi Murmu to seek her assent for key Assembly bills. These bills propose a substantial 42% reservation for Backward Classes in local governance, education, and employment sectors, according to Backward Classes Welfare Minister Ponnam Prabhakar.

During a state cabinet meet, Prabhakar highlighted the Congress government's strategy to garner support from friendly national parties and Members of Parliament to ensure these reservations are secured. The Chief Minister plans to meet opposition leaders in Parliament from August 5 to 7, alongside top Congress leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, to make a case to the President.

The proposed bills, initially passed in March, await presidential approval after being sent to the Governor. Meanwhile, Telangana has issued an ordinance to amend an existing Act to facilitate immediate implementation, following a High Court directive mandating local body elections within three months.

(With inputs from agencies.)