BC United Front demands caste census, equal political representation

Kadapa – Andhra Pradesh: BC United National Front State President DM Obulesu Yadav called for a nationwide caste census and proportional representation for backward classes (BCs) in political, economic, and social spheres, while releasing pamphlets for the upcoming BC political state conferences at the YSR Press Club in Kadapa.

Call for caste census and representation

Obulesu Yadav lamented that despite 78 years of independence, caste census has not been conducted, leaving 90 percent of backward classes excluded from state power, while 7 percent of upper castes continue to dominate political, social, and economic sectors. He said that though many activists have fought for justice, the reality remains that “the 10 percent upper castes hold all major contracts, industries, corporate institutions, and government positions, while the 90 percent remain mere voters.”

Inequality and lack of political voice

He expressed concern that without representation in the parliament and assemblies, BCs cannot expect justice or policy benefits. “When only 10 percent of the population makes laws, how can 90 percent expect equality?” he questioned, urging for caste-based priority in legislatures to ensure fair policymaking.

Historical context of caste census

Highlighting the historical background, he said that caste enumeration was conducted six times during British rule between 1881 and 1931, identifying nearly 6,500 castes. However, after independence, governments have avoided caste-based census, which he termed as a “conspiracy against BCs.” He pointed out that even though the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) was conducted in 2011, its findings were never made public, leaving BCs without statistical recognition for equitable policy measures.

Demands for comprehensive reforms

The BC United Front placed several demands, including:

Conducting a nationwide caste census.
Implementation of BC reservations in legislative assemblies.
A 50% quota for BCs in education and employment.
Sub-quota for OBC women under women’s reservation.
Establishment of a separate BC ministry at the central level.
Reservation in promotions for BC employees.
100% fee reimbursement for BC students.
Abolition of EWS reservations.

Call for a BC freedom movement

Declaring that “the time has come for another BC freedom struggle,” Obulesu Yadav urged all BCs to unite against the injustice and neglect shown by successive governments. He called upon people to make the upcoming BC Political Awareness State Mahasabha on November 8 in Kadapa a grand success to shape future strategies.

Several leaders including National Handicrafts United Forum Party President Mallikarjuna, Janata Dal Party President Pratap Reddy, Advocate Penchalayya, District President Vamsi Yadav, General Secretary Lambhodhara, Vice Presidents Shiva, Sambayya, and Suman attended the program.