Siddipet/Hyderabad, Sept 26 (Maxim News): Telangana BC Welfare Minister Ponnam Prabhakar has demanded that the Centre include a separate count of Backward Classes (BCs) in the upcoming national census.
Speaking at the 131st birth anniversary celebrations of Chakali Ailamma on Vemulawada Road in Siddipet district on Saturday, Ponnam said accurate BC population data was necessary for ensuring representation and social justice.
Ministers Ponnam Prabhakar and Vakiti Srihari, along with Collector Haimavati and CP Rashmi Perumal, participated in the programme and paid floral tributes to Chakali Ailamma.
Ponnam Demands Separate BCs Data in Census
Ponnam questioned why the Centre should collect population figures for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes without separately recording BC/OBC numbers.
His demand is consistent with his recent calls for a separate OBC column in Census 2027. The Telangana Assembly has also adopted a resolution seeking the inclusion of BC/OBC details in the second-phase census questionnaire.
Ponnam has argued that reliable national-level BC data is important for policy formulation, welfare measures and representation. He has also pointed to Telangana’s socio-economic, educational, employment, political and caste survey as an example of detailed BC enumeration.
The minister also said court cases had contributed to delays in implementing reservations.
Vakiti Srihari Pays Tribute to Chakali Ailamma
Minister Vakiti Srihari praised Chakali Ailamma for her role in fighting against feudal rule. He said her struggle remained relevant and alleged that remnants of such a system could still be seen in some places.
The leaders said the government was committed to the welfare and development of weaker sections while highlighting the need for greater social justice.
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