Telangana: Telangana government’s announcement for the OBC community, 42% reservation in education, jobs, and politics
Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has announced a significant decision for the OBC (Other Backward Classes) community. He stated that the OBC population in the state will receive 42% reservation in education, jobs, employment, and political representation. Until now, the reservation was 23%.
In a post on X, Telangana CM Revanth Reddy wrote:
“As the leader of the Telangana Assembly and the Chief Minister, I solemnly declare that based on the most scientific, rigorous, and relentless efforts of our people, we can confirm that the OBC population in Telangana is 56.36%. Now, we are committed to setting a 42% reservation for this group in education, jobs, employment, and political representation. Let us be on the right side of history, and each of us should champion this historic step.”
He further wrote that Telangana is proud to lead a social revolution in India. He expressed pride in the fact that after Indian independence, the long-pending demand of backward communities—official counting and recognition of OBCs in the census—has finally been fulfilled.
Congress’ Commitment to OBC Reservation
Earlier, CM Revanth Reddy stated in the Telangana Assembly that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had promised that if Congress came to power, OBC reservation would be increased to 42%. Immediately after taking office, the government initiated an OBC caste census on February 4, 2024. The previous government had proposed increasing OBC reservation to 37% and sent the proposal to the Governor. However, the current government has decided to withdraw the earlier proposal.
Revanth Reddy further said,“Our government is now sending a fresh proposal for 42% reservation for OBCs in education, employment, and political opportunities. As the leader of the House, I assure you that I will take active steps to ensure the implementation of this 42% OBC reservation. I appeal to all political party leaders to come together and meet the Prime Minister on this issue. We will also seek necessary legal assistance to ensure this reservation is granted. Until we achieve 42% reservation for backward communities, we will not remain silent. We are committed to the Kamareddy Declaration.”
Government Facing Financial Burden: CM
Telangana CM Revanth Reddy also addressed the financial crisis in the state. Speaking in the Legislative Council, he said that the government is struggling with debt and a cash crunch due to various reasons. He revealed that the state borrowed ₹4,000 crore from the RBI to pay salaries to government employees.
Appealing for cooperation from government employees regarding the payment of dearness allowance (DA) and other financial matters, the CM assured that salaries will be paid on the 1st of every month. However, he admitted that it is becoming increasingly difficult to do so.
“I appeal to government employees to continue serving the state even if their salaries are slightly delayed. Sometimes, we need to take loans from the Reserve Bank. This time, I took a loan of ₹4,000 crore to ensure salaries were paid on time. This is your government, and I will present all financial facts and figures before you so that you can understand the situation regarding payments.