Spell out stance on quota: Congress asks TDP

Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee N. Raghuveera Reddy on Sunday asked the Telugu Desam Party to spell out its stance on reservations for Backward Classes.

Taking exception to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s statement seeking review of reservation policy, Mr. Raghuveera Reddy said the Congress insists on reservation for BCs and others till a level playing field was achieved. However, TDP, which is an ally to NDA government in the Centre, should declare its stand on the issue. Interestingly, the YSR Congress too did not comment on the issue and it is condemnable, said Mr. Reddy.

All India Congress Committee secretary S. Thirunavukkarasar said there was a change in the people’s attitude in one year and the Congress was gaining ground in the State.

Before 16 months, people were definitely angry with Congress but now things have changed. The Telugu Desam Government has failed to fulfil the poll promises, he said.

Referring to a few leaders leaving the party, he said that would not cause any dent in the party’s prospects in the State.

“The party was given rousing reception at Jangareddygudem in West Godavari district by people on Saturday. If this is the case after 16 months of Telugu Desam’s rule, then one imagine things after three years,” said Mr. Thirunavukkarasar while addressing media persons.

The PCC conducted its Backward Classes Cell General Body meeting here on Sunday and Mr. Thirunavukkarasar was chief guest.

Mr. Raghuveera Reddy saidTDP had betrayed BCs in the State. In the run up to general elections, the party had promised 120 benefits to BCs but not one promise was fulfilled.

Tall claims were made about clubbing Kapu community in the BCs but there was no development. 16 months have passed and the government has not constituted a BC Commission in the State and this shows TDP’s commitment towards the BCs, said Mr. Reddy.