Kavitha Demands OBC Sub-Quota in Women’s Reservation, Flags on Telangana Representation

With the Centre moving closer to implementing the long-pending Women’s Reservation Bill , the conversation around equitable representation has intensified bringing fresh demands for inclusivity within the proposed framework. Telangana Jagruthi president Kalvakuntla Kavitha on Thursday asserted that women’s reservation without an OBC sub-quota would fall short of delivering true social justice .

Speaking amid growing national focus on the Bill and the proposed delimitation of parliamentary constituencies , Kavitha argued that the 33% reservation for women in legislatures must include a dedicated share for OBC women . She maintained that linking the implementation of the Bill to delimitation is both unnecessary and counterproductive, as it could delay representation for women, especially those from marginalized backgrounds.

Emphasizing the principle of “quota within quota,” Kavitha said backward class women cannot be left to compete within a general women’s pool, as it would dilute their chances of political participation. She stressed that ensuring equitable access to lawmaking bodies is a responsibility that rests squarely with the government.

Kavitha also raised concerns over Telangana’s parliamentary representation , pointing out that the state currently holds only 3.13% share . She urged that this proportion be safeguarded during the delimitation process and warned of public backlash if the state’s political voice is weakened. According to her, southern states particularly those that have effectively controlled population growth could face disproportionate losses if seat allocation is revised solely on population criteria.

The Union government is reportedly considering expanding the Lok Sabha from 543 to around 850 seats , with indications that women’s reservation may be implemented from the 2029 general elections . However, Kavitha expressed concern that tying the rollout of reservations to delimitation could postpone tangible benefits for women , undermining the urgency of the reform.

She further called for a scientific and balanced approach in the proposed seat distribution\ 815 seats for states and 35 for Union Territories to ensure fairness across regions. Any restructuring, she said, must not come at the cost of states like Telangana.

At the same time, Kavitha is gearing up for a significant political shift, as her organization Telangana Jagruthi prepares to transform into a political party. The official launch is scheduled for April 25 , and ahead of it, she has left for Varanasi , where she will offer prayers at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple before announcing her future political roadmap.

Her increasing engagement with national issues, particularly women’s reservation and federal rights , has drawn attention in political circles, signaling her intent to play a larger role beyond the state.

With a constitutional amendment bill on women’s reservation expected to be introduced during the ongoing special Parliament session (April 16–18), Kavitha urged the Centre to remove procedural hurdles and fast-track implementation . She reiterated that democracy can only be strengthened when marginalized women, especially from OBC communities, are given meaningful representation .

Warning against any reforms that could undermine Telangana’s interests , Kavitha said her party would lead efforts to protect the state’s political share. She made it clear that the fight for social justice and equitable representation would intensify following the party’s formal launch.