Article Today, Hyderabad:
The Supreme Court is set to hear a petition challenging the Telangana government’s decision to provide 42% reservation for Backward Classes in local body elections. The petition, filed by Vanga Gopal Reddy on September 29, argues that the move breaches the constitutional ceiling of 50% reservation. A Bench led by Justice Vikram Nath will take up the case on October 6. The development comes after the State Election Commission has already announced the election schedule, heightening political interest.
Ceiling Limit in Question
The petitioner has contended that the reservation policy violates the Supreme Court’s earlier ruling that reservations must not cross the 50% limit under any circumstances. The State’s notification for elections to MPTCs, ZPTCs, and gram panchayats has thus come under legal scrutiny. Observers believe the outcome could directly impact the conduct of the upcoming polls.
Governor Yet to Clear the Bill
The controversy has deepened as the legislation passed by the Assembly to enhance BC reservations is still pending with the Governor. Critics argue that the government issued a Government Order (GO) before receiving the Governor’s assent. Legal experts point out that the validity of this GO could be a decisive issue in court. Earlier, the High Court had asked the government to defer the election notification until clarity emerged, but the State Election Commission proceeded to release the schedule.
High Court to Hear Case on October 8
Parallel to the Supreme Court hearing, the Telangana High Court will also resume hearings on a related petition filed by Madhava Reddy on October 8. The petition questions the legality of GO No. 9, which formalised the 42% reservation. The court’s verdict will be crucial in determining whether the government’s decision stands or falls.
Poll Process Under Uncertainty
With petitions pending in both the Supreme Court and the High Court, the future of local body elections in Telangana remains uncertain. Political parties and aspirants await clarity on whether the courts will permit the enhanced quota or halt the process. Until judicial pronouncements are made, the conduct of elections is likely to remain under suspense.
