Andhra Pradesh Assembly adopts resolution on 33 % reservation for backward classes

Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Saturday adopted a resolution requesting the Centre to provide 33.33 % reservation to backward classes (BCs) in the Parliament as well as the state legislatures.

Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu moved the resolution in the House on the last day of the Budget session. Seeking "constitutional status" for backward classes, the resolution also urged the Centre to conduct a census on BCs to determine their population.

It also requested setting up of a separate ministry for the welfare of BCs and earmark 25 % of welfare funds for the backward classes sub-plan. The AP government also wanted the Union Government to provide reservations in promotions for government employees belonging to backward classes. "With strong commitment, my government will ensure welfare of backward classes in Andhra Pradesh," the Chief Minister announced, moving the resolution in the Assembly.

BCs have been the backbone of the Telugu Desam Party, he said adding that the state government would revive the "Aadarana" schemes for the welfare of BC artisans.

The House adopted the resolution unanimously but Leader of Opposition Y S Jaganmohan Reddy sought to speak on the issue after the resolution was passed. Since Jagan's name was not in the list of speakers given by the YSR Congress on the subject, other members of his party spoke.

Legislative Affairs Minister Yanamala Ramakrishnudu said it was against the rules to speak on a subject after a resolution was passed by the House.