Hyderabad: Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka on Monday praised the Telangana caste census as a bold step toward social justice. He said the initiative, led by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, set Telangana apart as a model for reform across India.
He was speaking at the Sardar Sarvai Papanna Jayanti held at Ravindra Bharati. Bhatti said Telangana was the first state to complete a statewide caste census. Based on the findings, the state government approved 42 percent reservations for Backward Classes in education, jobs, and local bodies.
The Assembly passed the resolution unanimously and sent it to the Governor. Bhatti said the decision sparked national debate and put pressure on the Union Government to consider a similar exercise. He urged Bahujan communities to spread awareness about this achievement and protect the gains made under the people’s government.
The Deputy Chief Minister announced plans to install a statue of Sardar Sarvai Papanna in front of the Secretariat. He described the move as a tribute to Papanna’s legacy and a symbol of justice and equality. Bhatti thanked the Chief Minister for allocating the site and approving the project.
He recalled that Papanna united diverse castes at a time of deep social inequality. Bhatti said this spirit of unity and resistance should guide today’s efforts toward inclusive governance.
He also warned that some political groups were spreading falsehoods about reservation policies. Reaffirming the government’s stance, he said Telangana remained committed to protecting backward class rights. He called on citizens to stay united and reject divisive propaganda.
