Congress Unveils \'Minority Declaration\' Ahead of Telangana Polls

Hyderabad: In a strategic move ahead of the upcoming Assembly polls in Telangana, the TPCC (Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee) has announced a comprehensive plan titled the ‘Minority Declaration.’

This initiative outlines a series of measures aimed at the upliftment and empowerment of minority communities in the state, with a promise to implement them if the party comes to power.

Financial Upliftment and Empowerment

As part of the Minority Declaration, the Congress party pledges to conduct a caste census within the first six months of assuming power.

The goal is to ensure fair reservation for all backward classes, including minorities, in jobs, education, and government welfare schemes.

The party also commits to increasing the minorities’ welfare budget to Rs. 4,000 crore, with a dedicated minorities sub-plan.

Additionally, Rs. 1,000 crore per annum will be allocated to provide subsidized loans for jobless minority youth and women.

Commitment to Education and Employment Equity

Under the Abdul Kalam Taufa-e-Taleem Scheme, the Congress promises financial assistance of Rs. 5 lakh to Muslim, Christian, Sikh, and other minority youth upon completing M.Phil. and Ph.D.

Various incentives for educational milestones, such as post-graduation, graduation, Intermediate, and 10th grade, are also outlined.

The establishment of the Telangana Sikh Minority Finance Corporation and addressing vacancies in minority institutions are key aspects of the Congress's plan.

Protection of Religious Rights and Culture

The Minority Declaration emphasizes the monthly honorarium of Rs. 10,000-12,000 for priests from all religions, including Imams, Muezzins, Khadims, Pastors, and Granthis.

To strengthen the institutional framework, the Congress commits to amending ‘The Telangana State Minorities Commission Act, 1998,’ making it a permanent body and tabling its annual report in the state legislative for policy changes in minorities’ welfare.

Digitisation of land and property records of the Waqf  Board and reclaiming encroached properties are also on the agenda.

Infrastructure and Welfare

In a bid to address housing issues, the Congress promises to provide a house site and Rs. 5 lakh for the construction of houses for all houseless minority families under the Indiramma Indlu Scheme.

Newly wed couples from minority communities will receive Rs. 1,60,000 in support.

Promotion of Inclusivity and Growth

The Minority Declaration underscores the Congress’s commitment to revitalizing skill development training through SETWIN and transforming Quli Qutub Shah Urban Development Authority (QQSUDA) to develop infrastructure in the Old City.

As the Assembly polls in Telangana approach on November 30, with counting results on December 3, the Minority Declaration stands as the Congress party’s vision for a more inclusive and empowered Telangana, pending the outcome of the elections.