The Andhra Pradesh Assembly has unanimously approved the Scheduled Caste (SC) Categorization Bill, with Chief Minister Chandrababu announcing that the resolution will be forwarded to the Central Government. He stated that the state is prepared to implement district-wise caste categorization after the census. The Assembly also passed a resolution to include the Budaga Jangam community in the SC list.
Reservation Distribution for SC Sub-Groups
The approved bill outlines the reservation quotas for SC sub-groups as follows:
– Group A (Relli & Sub-castes): 1%
– Group B (Madiga & Sub-castes): 6.5%
– Group C (Mala & Sub-castes): 7.5%
Roster Point Allocation:
1. First 100 Roster Points:
– Group A: 1%
– Group B: 6%
– Group C: 8%
2. Second 100 Roster Points:
– Group A: 1%
– Group B: 7%
– Group C: 7%
CM Chandrababu Reiterates Commitment to SC Categorization
Chief Minister Chandrababu reaffirmed his commitment to SC categorization, recalling that the state had pledged to address the issue in the past. He emphasized that passing a resolution in the Assembly and submitting it to the Centre would facilitate a resolution.
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Providing a historical perspective, he noted that:
– A committee for SC categorization was established in 1996.
– A rationalization and categorization law was enacted in 2000 in the united Andhra Pradesh but was later struck down by the court.
– The Usha Mehra Commission recommended implementing SC categorization.
– A committee studied the reservation structure for SCs in local bodies.
Chandrababu emphasized his long-standing involvement in the issue, stating that his efforts have continued from the formation of the initial committee to the Supreme Court’s ruling.
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Measures to Address Social Discrimination
Expressing concern over ongoing discrimination against SCs, Chandrababu highlighted previous government initiatives, including:
– Establishing the Justice Punnaiah Commission to abolish untouchability.
– Issuing Government Orders (GOs) aimed at eradicating untouchability.
– Setting up an SC/ST Cell to address community grievances.
– Implementing legal measures against discrimination in public spaces, including hotels and drinking water sources.
– Organizing awareness programs on social equality.
Chandrababu reiterated the state’s commitment to SC categorization and social justice, urging the Central Government to take necessary action.