Loss of 750 medical seats for Bahujans due to systemic discrepancies: SSD !!!

Andhra Pradesh: Samata Sainik Dal alleges the loss of 750 medical seats for Bahujans due to systemic discrepancies. State President Bethala Sudarshan saidthat a complaint had been lodged with the government and the National SC, ST, OBC Commissions on June 30 and alleged that the government is depriving the Bahujans of educational opportunities.

Government’s controversial medical college policy

In 2021, the Andhra Pradesh government decided to establish a government medical college in every Lok Sabha constituency. For the academic year 2023-24, these colleges allocated seats for undergraduate MBBS courses as follows: 35% for self-financing, 15% for the NRI category, and 50% for the general category. This policy, opposed by the then Chief Minister Jagan, disregards constitutional reservations for Bahujans, according to critics.

Allegations of social reservation denial

The Samata Sainik Dal argues that social reservations for SC, ST, and BC students in state government-owned colleges are deliberately restricted to 50% of seats, calling it unconstitutional. They demand the immediate cancellation of this policy, claiming that Bahujans have lost 750 medical seats due to these systemic discrepancies.

Concerns over government policies and high fees

Critics fear that the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) might continue the current policies if they adopt the same approach as Jagan. Despite promises, no decision has been made on MBBS fees, leading to high costs: Rs 12 lakh for self-financing, and Rs 20 lakh for NRI seats.

Political reactions and protests

The TDP and Jana Sena parties protested then against these policies, highlighting the injustice towards Bahujans. Nara Lokesh, now Education Minister, promised to abolish such practices within 100 days of coming to power, advocating for a poverty-free state. Jana Sena Chief Pawan Kalyan also criticized the then government, comparing it unfavorably to Telangana, which allocates seats more equitably.

Call for constitutional adherence

The Samata Sainik Dal and other advocacy groups demand that the government adhere to constitutional principles and ensure fair reservation policies. They call for an end to the commercialization of medical seats and the implementation of genuine social reservations to support the educational advancement of Bahujans.