Telangana Chief Minister and Congress leader Revanth Reddy has enthusiastically welcomed the growing national momentum for a Backward Class (BC) caste census, calling it a long-overdue step toward real social justice. Talking to the media, Reddy pointed out that collecting caste-based data is really important for making sure policies are fair and comprehensive. He also encouraged the central government to go ahead with a nationwide caste census. Reddy happily emphasized that Telangana is already making strides in this area, and their approach could really are a model for the whole country.

Telangana Launches Ground-Level BC Survey

Revanth Reddy highlighted that the Telangana government has already initiated a state-level comprehensive BC survey, collecting in-depth data from village to urban level. This includes details about the community’s demographics, education levels, jobs, income, land ownership, and access to welfare programs. Reddy mentioned that the goal is to use this info to help fix the long-standing inequalities in representation and resource sharing.

The Chief Minister emphasized that this isn’t just about the numbers — it’s really about fixing decades of imbalance when it comes to how public welfare has been handled. He added, “You can’t fix what you don’t actually measure. “For far too long, governments have formulated policies in the absence of actual caste data. This has left many BC communities behind.”

Telangana Model: A Roadmap for Inclusive Governance

According to Reddy, Telangana’s model is built on transparency, accuracy, and grassroots engagement. The survey is happening with input from local officials, data analysts, and community groups to make sure everyone in BC is counted and understood. The guy emphasized that these surveys shouldn’t just be some boring paperwork — they’re a way to actually change how government works.

“We have launched this mission not for electoral gain, but to build a more inclusive society,” he asserted. “We want every policy to reflect the true needs of every backward class citizen — whether in health, education, or employment.”

Calls for a National Commission for BC Census

Revanth Reddy has also urged the Central government to establish a National Commission for BC Census, comprising experts in sociology, public policy, and data science, to ensure the process is independent, scientific, and politically neutral. He argued that this commission could lay the foundation for a data-driven welfare state that empowers the historically marginalized.

“The time has come to end the guesswork,” Reddy said. “Only a proper BC caste census can help formulate reservation policies, scholarship distributions, and welfare budgets in a way that’s fair, inclusive, and justified.”

Sharp Criticism of BJP’s Delay in Action

In a direct swipe at the BJP-led Central government, Revanth Reddy criticized the delay and reluctance in conducting a national caste census. He accused the Modi government of using symbolism rather than substance when it comes to backward communities. “They talk about social justice during elections but do nothing to institutionalize it. Congress, on the other hand, is taking real steps on the ground.”

Reddy credited Rahul Gandhi for bringing the caste census issue to the national spotlight through campaigns like Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, which emphasized equitable rights, representation, and dignity for all communities, including BCs, SCs, and STs.

Caste Census: A Growing National Demand

Several states including Bihar, Tamil Nadu, and now Telangana are actively pursuing or have completed some form of caste census. Political observers note that the demand for caste enumeration is gaining traction across the country, especially in states with large backward caste populations. The pressure is now mounting on the Centre to break its silence and take a decisive step.

Revanth Reddy believes that if the Centre adopts Telangana’s model, it could create a framework for equity-oriented policies at the national level. “You cannot ignore the realities of social structure in India. To ignore caste is to ignore inequality itself,” he said.

Empowering the Marginalized Through Data

The Telangana Chief Minister said the real value of caste census data lies in how it will be used. His government plans to use the findings to adjust welfare schemes, allocate funds more equitably, and enhance BC representation in higher education and government jobs.

“This is not about dividing people,” he clarified. “It’s about giving voice and visibility to those who’ve been invisible for too long.”

Reddy also announced that once Telangana’s survey is complete, the data will be made public in a transparent manner, setting a national precedent for openness in governance.

Political and Social Impact of Telangana’s Initiative

Experts suggest that Revanth Reddy’s assertive stance could strengthen Congress's outreach among BC communities nationwide. The move not only boosts his image as a reformer but also positions Telangana as a pioneer in inclusive governance.

With the 2024 Lok Sabha elections approaching, the BC caste census is fast emerging as a key electoral issue. Reddy’s push for data-backed social justice may give the Congress party a strategic edge, especially in southern states and among marginalized groups looking for genuine representation.