In a significant move, the Congress party is set to unveil its “Minority Declaration” today, with the event being presided over by veteran leader Salman Khurshid. This declaration will outline an array of welfare schemes and developmental initiatives specifically designed to elevate the status of minority communities, with the promise of implementation contingent on the party’s electoral success in Telangana.
One of the noteworthy highlights of this declaration is the Congress party’s commitment to implementing the recommendations put forth by the Sachar Committee and the Sudhir Commission. These recommendations, aimed at addressing the socioeconomic and educational conditions of Muslims in Telangana, include advocating for a substantial 12% reservation or a minimum of 9% for the community in both social and educational sectors.
Certainly, here’s a reformatted version of the paragraph:
Anticipated Pledges in the Minority Declaration:
- SC Status for Dalit Christians: The Minority Declaration is expected to include a promise to advocate for a state Assembly resolution granting Scheduled Caste (SC) status to Dalit Christians, acknowledging their specific challenges.
- Monthly Honorarium for Religious Leaders: Pastors and priests of churches are likely to be assured a monthly honorarium of Rs 5,000, recognizing their significant roles in the community. Similarly, imams and muezzins of mosques are expected to receive a monthly honorarium of Rs 6,000.
- Enhancing Healthcare and Education: The party is considering the establishment of more hospitals and schools in areas densely populated by religious minorities. This initiative seeks to enhance access to quality education and healthcare.
- Modernizing Madrasas: Additionally, there is contemplation about modernizing madrasas to align educational methods with contemporary standards, promoting a more inclusive learning environment.
These initiatives, expected to be featured in the Minority Declaration, reflect a comprehensive approach to address the diverse needs of minority communities, emphasizing inclusivity, equality, and progress.
It’s worth noting that this isn’t the Congress party’s first declaration; earlier, they had released declarations catering to various sections of society, such as farmers, youth, women, and SCs/STs.
In a parallel development, the “BC Declaration” is also on the horizon, scheduled to be disclosed in Kamareddy on Friday. This declaration will be presented by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and is expected to address the concerns and aspirations of the Backward Classes.
