AP Assembly unanimously passes SC Classification Bill

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has reiterated his government's commitment to Scheduled Caste (SC) classification, as the AP Assembly unanimously approved the SC Classification Bill. The bill divides SC reservations into three groups, allocating one percent for Group A (Relli and subcastes), 6.5 percent for Group B (Madiga and subcastes), and 7.5 percent for Group C (Mala and subcastes).

Under the roster system, out of the first 100 points, Group A will receive one percent, Group B six percent, and Group C eight percent. In the next 100 roster points, Group A will again get one percent, while Group B and Group C will receive 7 percent each.

Chandrababu Naidu on SC Classification :
Addressing the Assembly, Chandrababu Naidu emphasized that social inequalities persist even after 75 years of independence, and it is necessary to continue the fight against them. He acknowledged the efforts of Manda Krishna, who played a crucial role in advocating justice for the Madiga community. He reiterated that the issue of classification could be resolved if a resolution is passed in the Assembly and forwarded to the Centre.

The Chief Minister further stated that SC reservation categories should be classified district-wise and assured that after the 2026 Census, the classification would be re-evaluated and refined based on regional data.

Chandrababu Naidu recalled that in 1996, his government formed a committee for SC categorization into A, B, C, and D groups. In 2000, a law was passed in united Andhra Pradesh to implement the classification, but it was later struck down by the court. Subsequently, the Usha Mehra Commission also recommended SC classification, and studies were conducted to analyze reservation policies in local bodies.

He highlighted that his involvement in the SC classification issue spans several decades, from the formation of the first committee to the Supreme Court verdict. Naidu paid tribute to Justice Punnaiah, who worked extensively for SC rights, and mentioned that his government had taken several measures to combat social discrimination.

Chandrababu Naidu emphasized the role of TDP in empowering Dalits and highlighted several key initiatives taken by the party, including making G M C Balayogi the first Dalit Speaker of the Lok Sabha and appointing a Dalit woman as the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly.

The Chief Minister highlighted his government’s commitment to SC welfare, revealing that Rs 8,400 crore had been allocated for various financial schemes benefiting the SC community. He further assured that funds were distributed proportionally among the Mala and Madiga communities in previous years.