Demand for nationwide caste census takes centre stage at BC leaders’ conclave

Backward Classes push for caste census, increased reservations, and political representation at symposium on BC marginalisation.

Representatives of the Backward Classes (BCs) emphasised the urgent need to include a caste census in the upcoming national census. They argued that accurate data is essential for informed policymaking and ensuring fair representation for Backward Classes (BCs) adding that the BCs are still facing ‘political untouchability’.

Speaking at a symposium titled ‘75 Years of the Indian Constitution – Political Untouchability of BCs’ held at Press Club, Somajiguda, here on Saturday, they also urged the completion of State-initiated socio-economic and caste surveys and called for increased reservations for BCs in education, employment and political institutions.

The brainstorming session brought together intellectuals, social scientists, activists and students to discuss the ongoing ‘marginalisation’ of BCs in political and economic spheres. The participants called for the classification of BC sub-castes to ensure equitable 42% seat reservations for BCs in local body elections.

Presided over by Vakulabharanam Krishna Mohan Rao, former chairman of the Telangana BC Commission, the speakers accused governments of treating BCs as mere vote banks rather than equal stakeholders. They highlighted the neglect of Articles 14, 15, 16, and 340 of the Constitution, pointing out how inadequate political representation continues to perpetuate social and economic inequality.

The conference also explored successful BC political movements in States like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, contrasting them with the absence of similar initiatives in Telangana. Participants resolved to establish an independent BC political platform, launch awareness campaigns and organize district-level movements to unify voices across the State.

To advance the BC political agenda and prepare for upcoming elections, attendees proposed forming expert committees and adopting social media strategies.

The five-hour session saw diverse participation, including retired and current professors, journalists, poets, writers, caste association representatives, student leaders and women’s organisations. Notable attendees included Justice Chandrakumar, former Advocate General B.S. Prasad, Professor P.L. Visweshwar Rao, Professor K. Murali Manohar and student leaders from Osmania and Central Universities.