Date:13/12/2004 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2004/12/13/stories/2004121305570400.htm

Andhra Pradesh

Meet on problems of BCs soon

By Our Staff Reporter

HYDERABAD, DEC. 12. The Government will convene shortly a high-level meeting to discuss the problems facing people belonging to the Backward Classes. The Chief Minister, Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy, will preside over it.

This was announced by the Agriculture Minister, N. Raghuveera Reddy, while inaugurating a State-level convention of BC welfare organisations. R. Krishnaiah, president, Andhra Pradesh BC Welfare Association, which convened the meeting, presided. Representatives of 40 organisations attended it.

The Minister, who announced that the Government would take several important steps for the welfare of Backward Classes, refuted allegations that it was adopting anti-BC policies. The steps envisaged included construction of 35 lakh houses in five years.

Mr. Krishnaiah listed the benefits that accrued to Backward Classes following agitations taken by the association.

V. Krishna Mohan Rao, general secretary of the association, said the newly-constituted Andhra Pradesh BC Commission would hold a public hearing on December 27. People could file their petitions and suggestions by December 20.

According to a press release, the convention adopted ten resolutions. Among others, it demanded 50 per cent reservation in legislatures, reservations for employees in promotions and a legislation to prevent harassment of persons belonging to BC communities.