BJP’s Payal Shankar Demands Constitutional Rights for BCs

Payal Shankar, the deputy floor leader of the BJP in the Andhra Pradesh Assembly and MLA for Adilabad, has called for constitutional recognition of reservations for Backward Classes (BCs). Speaking during a statewide bandh organized by the BC joint action committee in Hyderabad on Saturday, he emphasized that the community is not seeking political sympathy but legitimate rights enshrined in the Constitution.

Shankar actively participated in the protest, joining a bike rally alongside prominent BC leader R. Krishnaiah and BJP supporters. The demonstration culminated in a sit-in at the RTC depot, where they blocked buses to draw attention to their demands. Throughout the rally, Shankar reiterated the BJP’s commitment to securing a 42 percent reservation for Backward Classes, arguing that this initiative is essential for ensuring equitable representation in governance.

In his address, Shankar criticized ongoing injustices against BCs within the legislative framework. He accused rival parties of undermining the quota movement, drawing parallels to historical attempts to weaken the Telangana statehood struggle. He warned that the BC community would actively resist any political maneuvers aimed at diluting their demands.

The demand for reservations stems not from a desire for political favours, Shankar explained, but from a commitment to democratic values and constitutional guarantees. He stated, “The fight is for rightful representation, not for political appeasement.” Shankar urged the state government to take responsibility and act in the best interests of backward communities, insisting that BCs would not remain subordinate to party leaders.

The call for recognition of BCs reflects wider societal issues concerning representation and equity in India. As the agitation continues, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to these demands and what measures will be implemented to address the concerns of the Backward Classes.