Pressing issue of reservations for Other Backward Classes (OBCs), OBC Reservation in Telangana 2024 in the Indian Parliament and State Legislatures. The demand for 33% reservations for OBCs in these legislative bodies is the focus of our discussion. This proposal aims to correct historical injustices against socially and educationally marginalized sections of our society.
As you are aware, the visionary architects of our Constitution have envisaged for providing suitable provisions in the Constitution for affirmative action by the State to correct historical wrongs done to socially and educationally marginalized sections of the society. Part of this objective was achieved by providing for reservations for OBCs in public employment and admissions in educational institutions.
However, as you would agree with me, proportionate representation in Parliament and State Legislatures is a sin quo- non in a democratic polity to reflect hopes and aspirations of marginalized sections of the society.
Realising this critical need, Telangana State Legislature has passed a unanimous Resolution on 14.06.2014 requesting the Government of India to provide for 33% reservations for OBCs in Parliament and State Legislatures. I am dismayed to note that Government of India has not initiated any action on this front so far.
BRS Parliamentary Party, in its meeting held on 15.9.2023, passed a Resolution demanding for providing 33% reservation for OBCs in Parliament and State Legislatures.
I, once again, would like to request you to initiate necessary Legislative process for speedy implementation in the ensuing special session of the Parliament, which starting on 18th September 2023.
With regards,
The Constitutional Vision
The framers of our Constitution were visionary, recognizing the need to rectify historical wrongs. To address these injustices, provisions were made within the Constitution for affirmative action by the State. One significant step in this direction was the introduction of reservations for OBCs in public employment and educational institutions. While this was a crucial first step, it falls short of achieving the goal of proportionate representation in Parliament and State Legislatures.
The Telangana State Legislature’s Initiative
Telangana, a state with a rich cultural heritage and a commitment to social justice, recognized the urgency of this matter. On June 14, 2014, the Telangana State Legislature unanimously passed a resolution requesting the Government of India to implement 33% reservations for OBCs in Parliament and State Legislatures. This was a commendable effort to address the underrepresentation of OBCs in our democratic institutions.
The Need for Immediate Action
However, it is disheartening to note that despite the state’s earnest appeal, the Government of India has yet to take any concrete steps in this direction. The aspirations of millions of marginalized individuals continue to be unmet. It is imperative that we rectify this situation promptly.
A Unified Call for Change
The recent development on September 15, 2023, is a significant milestone in the pursuit of justice. The BRS Parliamentary Party, in its meeting on this date, passed a resolution demanding 33% reservation for OBCs in Parliament and State Legislatures. This unified call for change emphasizes the urgency of addressing this issue.
A Plea to Prime Minister Narendra Modi
In light of the developments mentioned above, I earnestly request Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take swift action. The upcoming special session of Parliament, scheduled to commence on September 18, 2023, presents an opportune moment to initiate the necessary legislative process.
As you are aware, our Constitution has envisaged suitable provisions for affirmative action in favour of Women to correct historical prejudices and discrimination against them. I am happy to inform you that Telangana State Government is implementing 30% reservation for women in public employment and admissions in educational institutions.
However, suitable representation in Parliament and State Legislatures is required in a democratic polity to reflect hopes and aspirations of the marginalized sections of the society. Realising this critical need, Telangana State Legislature has passed an unanimous Resolution on 14.06.2014 requesting the Government of India to provide for 33% reservations for Women in Parliament and State Legislatures. However, Government of India has not initiated any action on this front so far.
BRS Parliamentary Party, in its meeting held on 15.9.2023, passed a Resolution demanding for providing 33% reservation for Women in Parliament and State Legislatures.
I, once again, would like to request you to initiate required Legislative process for speedy implementation in the ensuing special session of the Parliament starting on 181h September 2023.
| S.No. | Group | Sl.No. | Percentage of Reservation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | A | 1 to 54 | 7% |
| 2 | B | 1 to 28 | 10% |
| 3 | C | 1 | 1% |
| 4 | D | 1 to 47 | 7% |
| 5 | E | 1 to 14 | 4% |
| Total | 29% |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the demand for 33% reservations for OBCs in Parliament and State Legislatures is not just a political request; it is a moral imperative. It is a step toward ensuring that our democracy truly represents the diverse hopes and aspirations of all its citizens. The time for action is now, and I hope that our plea does not fall on deaf ears. Let us work together to create a more inclusive and just India.
