KTR criticises Congress for cutting BC reservations from 24% to 17% in upcoming Gram Panchayat elections. Questions Rs 160 crore spent on caste census and unfulfilled promise of 42% quota.

BRS working president K.T. Rama Rao on Wednesday launched a sharp attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, accusing the Telangana government of betraying Backward Classes (BCs) by slashing their reservation quota in the Gram Panchayat elections.

Taking to X, KTR said the BC quota had been reduced from 24% to just 17.08%, despite the Congress previously promising 42% reservation following a ₹160 crore caste census. Referring to Gandhi’s past statements, KTR wrote, “Hello Rahul Gandhi Ji… you presented the caste census as a model. Now, after spending public money, why has the BC quota been cut to 17%?”

The Telangana State Election Commission has scheduled Gram Panchayat polls across three phases on December 11, 14 and 17, covering 12,728 sarpanch seats and over 1.12 lakh wards. Out of 12,735 Gram Panchayats, only 2,176 have been reserved for BCs.

Earlier this year, the government issued orders for 42% reservation for BCs in local bodies. However, the High Court suspended this directive citing the 50% cap on total reservations, forcing the state to go ahead with elections under the existing limit. The cabinet has prioritised Gram Panchayat polls to avoid losing over ₹3,000 crore in Central grants.

KTR’s criticism signals a deeper political rift ahead of local body polls. The reduction in BC reservation may trigger unrest in rural communities, especially among caste-based organisations. While Congress argues legal constraints forced the move, the opposition is likely to capitalise on the issue in upcoming campaigns.
Experts suggest the government must communicate its strategy clearly to prevent backlash and restore confidence among BC voters—who hold decisive influence in village-level elections.