Bahujans make up 90% of AP, yet remain underrepresented: Purnachandra Rao

Metro India News | VIJAYAWADA

Former DGP Dr. J. Purnachandra Rao on Tuesday said that Bahujan communities constitute nearly 90 percent of Andhra Pradesh's population but continue to remain underrepresented in the State Legislature and other centres of political power.

Speaking as the chief guest at the "Bahujana Paata Mata" programme held at Tummalapalli Kalakshetram in Vijayawada, he stressed that genuine democracy can thrive only when political representation reflects the social composition of society.

The cultural programme featured songs highlighting the social, educational, economic and political challenges faced by Backward Classes (BCs), Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), Muslims and Christians. The event called upon Bahujan communities to unite and strive for constitutional rights and political empowerment.

Addressing intellectuals, retired civil servants, social activists, students and representatives of various organisations, Dr. Purnachandra Rao cited the composition of the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly elected in 2024. He noted that BCs, who constitute about 56 percent of the population, have only 40 MLAs. SCs, who account for nearly 19 percent, have 29 MLAs, while Muslims, constituting around 8 percent of the population, have just three MLAs. STs, who form about 6 percent of the population, have seven legislators.

In contrast, he pointed out that Reddys, constituting roughly 5 percent of the population, have 32 MLAs, while Kammas, with around 3 percent population share, have 35 MLAs.

Stating that representation is a democratic right and not charity, he urged Bahujan communities to focus on education, constitutional awareness, leadership development and political participation. He also called for a broader debate on proportional representation, inclusive governance and democratic accountability. Several retired officials, former legislators and social leaders also addressed the gathering.