Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has officially presented the caste census report in the state assembly, emphasizing that the survey was conducted to uplift backward communities. He revealed key statistics collected during the survey:
- Total families surveyed: 66,99,602
- Total survey coverage in Telangana: 96.9%
- Time taken for data entry: 36 days
- Completion of the survey: Within a year
Breakdown of Population Data
- Scheduled Castes (SCs): 17.43%
- Scheduled Tribes (STs): 10.45%
- Backward Classes (BCs): 46.25%
- Muslim BCs: 10.08%
- Total BCs (Including Muslims): 56%
- Total OC population (including Muslims): 15.79%
CM Revanth Reddy’s Remarks
- There was no accurate data on the BC population in the past, leading to miscalculations.
- Wealthier sections have always been counted, while weaker sections were ignored.
- Caste census is crucial for ensuring social justice, a belief supported by Rahul Gandhi.
- No updated caste data has been recorded since 2011, and 2014 figures are unreliable.
- The Supreme Court had suggested caste-based surveys, and this initiative aligns with their recommendations.
- Political representation and reservations will now be based on caste census data.
- The Telangana government’s decision will increase pressure on the central government to conduct a nationwide caste census.
CM Revanth Reddy emphasized that February 4, 2024, would be remembered as a historic day, marking a significant step toward justice for 76% of BC, SC, and minority communities. He asserted that in the future, the document presented in the assembly today would serve as a reference point for policymaking.
