Minister Ponnam Prabhakar, overseeing Transport and BC Welfare, delivered a strong message to those opposing the 42% reservation policy for Backward Classes (BC) in local body elections. He emphasized that these communities are deserving of these opportunities and appealed to critics not to impede the state government’s initiatives. He also highlighted that there was no opposition to the 10% reservations provided for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS).
His statements were made during the 110th birth anniversary celebrations of Konda Laxman Bapuji, a revered Telangana freedom fighter and former minister, held at Ravindra Bharathi.
Addressing the attendees, Minister Prabhakar detailed the concerted efforts made by the State government, under the leadership of Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, to successfully pass the necessary legislation for the 42% BC reservations.
He further elaborated, “We officially issued GO MS 9 on Friday, formally establishing a 42% reservation of seats and positions for BCs in local bodies.” He drew a parallel with Tamil Nadu, which he noted has implemented reservations up to 60%. With an emotional plea, he added, “As a member of this community, I implore those who oppose BC reservations not to snatch away our rightful share.”
Joining him, Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao lauded Konda Laxman Bapuji’s pivotal contributions to India’s freedom struggle and the Telangana armed movement. He praised Bapuji as a monumental figure instrumental in achieving Telangana statehood, even highlighting his sacrifice of a ministerial position for the cause.
Nageswara Rao concluded by honoring Bapuji’s legacy, stating, “Konda Lakshman Bapuji was an extraordinary leader who devoted his life to public service. He lived by Mahatma Gandhi’s principles and tirelessly worked for the betterment of the marginalized.” He also mentioned that both the Horticulture University and the Indian Institute of Handloom Technology have been named in Bapuji’s honor.