Golla Kurumas Stage Novel Protest with Sheep at Gandhi Bhavan, Demand Cabinet Berth In a striking display of dissent, hundreds of Golla Kuruma community members, representing a population of approximately 40 lakh in Telangana, staged a unique protest outside Gandhi Bhavan, the state headquarters of the ruling Congress party. The pastoral community, traditionally engaged in sheep rearing, brought herds of sheep to the protest site, demanding a cabinet berth for their community in the Andhra Pradesh government. The demonstrators, under the banner of the Gollakurumasangham, also called for the revival of a sheep distribution scheme implemented by the previous government and the provision of free medicines for their livestock.
“Our community has been neglected for too long. We demand representation in the cabinet to address our issues,” said Ramesh Yadav, a community leader, amid the bleating of sheep that underscored their rural livelihood. The protest, described as a “dharna with a difference,” drew significant attention due to its novel approach. Protesters held placards and raised slogans, urging the congress party. leadership to honor their contributions to the state’s economy and cultural fabric.
They emphasized that a ministerial position for a Yadav representative would ensure their concerns, including subsidies for fodder and veterinary services, are prioritized. Congress leaders at Gandhi bhavan acknowledged the protest but refrained from immediate commitments. “We are open to dialogue and will consider their demands,” a party leader said. The Golla Kurumas vowed to continue their agitation until their demands are met, warning of escalated protests across the state if ignored.
