Payal Shankar Advocates for Constitutional Rights of Backward Classes

Payal Shankar, the deputy floor leader of the BJP Assembly and MLA for Adilabad, urged the need for constitutional recognition of reservations for Backward Classes (BC) during a statewide bandh in Hyderabad on October 7, 2023. Shankar emphasized that the BC community is not seeking political favours but rather legitimate constitutional rights.

Participating in the protest organized by the BC joint action committee, he reaffirmed his party’s commitment to securing a 42 percent reservation for BCs. Shankar took part in a bike rally through the Amberpet constituency alongside BC leader R. Krishnaiah and BJP supporters. The rally culminated in a sit-in at the RTC depot, where protesters aimed to block bus services.

Shankar expressed his concerns about ongoing injustices faced by BCs within the legislative framework. He accused rival political parties of attempting to undermine the quota movement, drawing parallels to historical efforts to dilute the push for Telangana’s statehood. He cautioned that the BC community would oppose any such political machinations.

The BJP leader made it clear that BCs do not intend to remain “subordinates to party leaders.” He articulated that the demand for a 42 percent reservation is rooted in democratic principles and constitutional guarantees. “The fight is for rightful representation, not for political appeasement,” he stated, calling on the state government to act responsibly and deliver justice to backward communities.

As the agitation continues, Shankar’s remarks highlight the ongoing struggle for equitable representation and the importance of adhering to constitutional rights for marginalized groups in society.