Hyderabad, Telangana: The state government’s allocation of double bedroom flats in Hyderabad has ignited a heated debate over allegations of discriminatory practices against Muslims. Critics are raising valid concerns about the lack of proportionate representation for Muslims in the allocation process, pointing out that their demographic share is not being adequately accounted for. As the controversy gains momentum, pressure is mounting on the government to rectify the situation and ensure fair treatment for all citizens in the upcoming phases of the 2BHK housing scheme.
Questionable Equity in Distribution
At the heart of the criticism lies the perception that the distribution of double bedroom flats among Muslims is not proportional to their population. Detractors argue that the distribution process should guarantee Muslims a share that corresponds to their demographic presence before the draw of lots for the flats takes place. The upcoming distribution of double bedroom flats within the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) limits, scheduled for September 2, has further exacerbated these concerns.
Legislative Intervention and Demands
During the previous monsoon session of the Assembly, Akbaruddin Owaisi, the Leader of the House, had taken a stance on this matter by urging the State Government to address the imbalance. He emphasized the need to earmark 12 percent of the promised houses under the double bedroom housing scheme specifically for Muslims. This call for targeted allocation is a response to the perceived neglect of Muslims in the housing distribution process.
Instructed Quotas and Exclusion
Sanaullah, an activist closely monitoring the situation, has shed light on an aspect of the allocation process. He revealed that district collectors have been instructed to ensure that 10 percent of the selected applicants for the double bedroom scheme are Muslims. However, a concerning scenario arises if, by chance, no Muslim applicant’s name is drawn in the lottery. In such cases, it appears that Muslim beneficiaries are entirely excluded from the allocation, further perpetuating the disparities.
Advocating for Equitable Solutions
Critics are advocating for an alternative approach that could rectify this imbalance. They propose the implementation of a separate draw of lots exclusively for the flats designated for Muslims. By doing so, the allocation process would ensure that the flats designated for the Muslim population are exclusively provided to Muslim beneficiaries. This shift could potentially lead to a higher number and percentage of Muslim applicants benefiting from the scheme.
Undermining the Intended Objective
One of the core arguments against the current distribution process is that it undermines the primary goal of the housing scheme – to provide equitable housing benefits to all citizens, regardless of their religious background. By excluding Muslims from the general category lottery, the intended objective of proportionately accommodating the Muslim population is compromised.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding the unequal distribution of 2BHK flats to Muslims in Hyderabad underscores the importance of fair and unbiased allocation processes. Critics rightly highlight that any system that perpetuates disparities based on demographics contradicts the principles of equality and inclusivity. As pressure mounts on the state government to address these concerns, a transparent and equitable solution could pave the way for a more harmonious distribution of housing benefits among all citizens, regardless of their religious affiliation.
