Telangana witnessed widespread protests and a statewide bandh today as several Backward Class (BC) organizations and community leaders demanded an increase in reservation to 42% for BCs in government jobs and educational institutions. The protest, however, has run into a major constitutional roadblock — the 50% reservation ceiling set by the Supreme Court.
BC associations argue that their population proportion is far higher than the current quota allotment and that the existing reservation of around 25% does not reflect social and economic realities. Demonstrators across Hyderabad, Warangal, Nizamabad, and Karimnagar took to the streets, calling on the state government to pass a resolution seeking enhancement of BC reservation and to urge the Centre for constitutional amendment to lift the 50% cap.
Shops, educational institutions, and public transport services were partially affected in some districts as protestors held rallies and sit-ins. Police were deployed in large numbers to ensure law and order.
Legal experts have pointed out that while states like Tamil Nadu have exceeded the 50% limit through special provisions, doing so requires inclusion in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution — a process that can only be approved by the Parliament.
BC leaders reiterated that the 42% quota demand is based on demographic studies showing that the BC population in Telangana constitutes nearly 52% of the total population. They have urged the Chief Minister to take a strong stance similar to Tamil Nadu’s approach and press the Centre for an exemption from the 50% cap.
The Telangana government is expected to hold discussions with community representatives and legal experts to explore viable options.
