Telangana Leaders Press for 42% Quota Bill in Delhi Showdown

In a fervent appeal to the central government, prominent leaders of the ruling Congress in Telangana converged at Delhi's Jantar Mantar to demand prompt approval of the State Assembly Bill ensuring 42 percent reservations for Backward Classes (BCs) in local body elections, education, and employment.

Joining the protest was Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, with Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi expected to join. The congregation of state ministers underscores the campaign's urgency, as they call upon the Centre and President to ratify the bill, essential for the upcoming local body elections.

Addressing media, Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka highlighted the passage through state channels, expressing hopes for a presidential nod. Telangana Minister G Vivekanand underscored the bill's role in promoting social justice, equating it to Congress' manifesto pledge. The agitation amplifies as Telangana MLA Vijayashanti seeks the BJP's stance on the legislation's parliamentary passage.

Simultaneously, Mallu Ravi motioned for Lok Sabha discussions on the OBC Reservation Bill, aiming to augment backward class representation in local elections. Echoing this demand, BRS MLC K Kavitha launched a hunger strike in Hyderabad, intensifying calls for immediate bill clearance to effectuate the quota rise in governance and educational domains.

(With inputs from agencies.)