Congress leaders, led by BC Welfare Minister Ponnam Prabhakar, came down heavily on BJP Telangana State president Ramachander Rao for his remarks that 42% reservation for Backward Classes (BCs) cannot be included in the Ninth Schedule due to legal issues.

Mr. Prabhakar accused the BJP president of exposing the party’s anti-BC mindset and of conspiring against the interests of BC communities in Telangana. Questioning Mr. Rao’s claims, the Minister reminded that Tamil Nadu already has higher reservations and protected through inclusion in the Ninth Schedule.

The Minister pointed out that the Supreme Court, in the landmark Indira Sawhney case, clearly held that if a State has empirical data and authentic surveys, it is empowered to take decisions on reservations. “Telangana government has conducted a scientific survey and, with the approval of the Cabinet, Legislature and the Governor, has placed its proposals before the Centre,” he said.

MLC Addanki Dayakar said the statement of Mr. Rao reflects the BJP’s feudal mindset and their disinterest in ensuring 42% reservations. Other BC leaders, Chanagani Dayakar, Indira Shobhan, Gouri Satish, Keturi Venkatesh and Lingam Yadav in separate press conferences said the BJP will not be spared if it fails to ensure the reservations are implemented.