Bhatti Vikramarka Issues Stark Warning on Delimitation and Caste Census
In a speech with significant political implications, Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka raised alarms on Saturday about the potential consequences of delimitation exercises that rely solely on 2011 population data. Speaking at the bicentenary celebrations of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule held at Ravindra Bharathi in Hyderabad, he emphasized that excluding caste census figures from this process could severely diminish the political weight of southern states in India.
Southern States at Risk of Reduced Representation
Vikramarka argued that this approach might enable the formation of a government at the Centre without adequate representation from these regions. He highlighted that southern states are leaders in social transformation and are collectively advocating for more equitable policies. However, he alleged that the Central government has been systematically reducing their share in tax revenues as part of a broader strategy to weaken their influence.
Disparities in Tax Devolution Exposed
To illustrate his point, the deputy chief minister provided stark figures on tax devolution. He noted that for every 1 rupee contributed to the Centre, Telangana receives only 0.37 paise, Tamil Nadu gets 0.29 paise, and Kerala obtains 0.61 paise. In contrast, Bihar receives 6.53 paise and Uttar Pradesh gets 2.17 paise for the same contribution. These numbers, he said, underscore the economic imbalances that could be exacerbated by unfair delimitation.
Call for Unity Against Feudal Forces
Vikramarka also cautioned that feudal forces in the state are attempting to regroup, fearing setbacks due to pro-people policies implemented by the current government. He urged Bahujans to remain united in the face of these challenges, stressing that the government is committed to social justice and will stand firm. "This government is committed to social justice and will stand firm despite challenges," he affirmed.
Additionally, he mentioned that the demand for a Backward Classes (BC) Sub-Plan is under consideration, similar to the already implemented Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) Sub-Plans, which aim to allocate funds specifically for the welfare of these communities.
The speech at the Mahatma Jyotirao Phule event served as a rallying cry for southern states to assert their rights and for marginalized communities to maintain solidarity in the pursuit of equitable representation and resources.
