Article Today, Hyderabad:
The process of allotting reservations for local body elections in Telangana has triggered controversy after several irregularities came to light. Seats were reserved for categories that do not exist in the respective villages. Critics argue that such lapses undermine the democratic process and defeat the principle of social justice that the reservation system is intended to uphold.
Basing Data on Old Census
Officials have relied on outdated population figures from the 2011 Census for the allocation of reserved categories. In many villages, demographic shifts caused by migration have significantly altered the social composition. However, without fresh surveys, reservations were announced on the basis of obsolete data. Analysts say this oversight has led to situations where seats are uncontested or predetermined, leaving little room for genuine electoral competition.
Unusual and Contradictory Cases
Instances of flawed reservation allocation have been reported across multiple districts. In some villages of Nalgonda district, seats were reserved for Backward Classes despite the absence of BC voters. Similarly, in parts of Suryapet, Khammam, Adilabad and Mahabubnagar districts, seats meant for Scheduled Tribes were announced in villages where no ST voters exist. In certain cases, a single voter from the reserved category is present, making the outcome effectively unanimous. Such examples illustrate the lack of alignment between official data and ground realities.
Democratic Concerns Raised
The opposition parties and civil society groups have criticised the government for neglecting to update surveys before conducting elections. They argue that the failure to match reservations with actual voter demographics turns the electoral process into a formality. The criticism also highlights that social justice cannot be achieved through mechanical application of outdated figures. Instead, the demand is for transparent, data-driven methods that reflect the current population profile.
Call for Corrective Measures
The controversy has put pressure on the State Election Commission and the government to revisit the procedure. Legal experts caution that such irregularities could invite judicial scrutiny if challenged in court. Meanwhile, community leaders insist that corrective steps, including fresh population surveys, must be undertaken to ensure fairness in future elections.
