Telangana activist dies by self-immolation over OBC reservation demand
Sai Eshwar Chari, a 32-year-old activist from Telangana, died after setting himself on fire to protest the state government's failure to implement 42% reservations for Backward Classes (BCs).
The incident happened outside a YouTube office in Uppal, Hyderabad, and has since sparked protests and arrests across the city as BC organizations call for action.
Who was Sai Eshwar Chari?
Chari was a cab driver and passionate advocate for BC rights, living in Jagathgirigutta but originally from Pocharam village. He had been actively campaigning for fairer reservation policies in education and jobs.
After failing to meet MLC Chintapandu Naveen about the issue on Thursday, he took this drastic step.
His funeral saw tight security and demands to halt local elections until the quota is implemented.
Chari leaves behind his wife Kavitha and three young children. Community leaders are now pressing the government for accountability and support for his family.