Hyderabad: The Telangana government is preparing to issue a new Government Order (GO) to enhance reservations for Backward Classes (BCs) to 42% in local body elections. The move comes as the ruling party aims to strengthen its electoral prospects in the upcoming rural and urban local body polls.
According to official sources, the government is considering revising existing orders related to BC reservations and issuing a fresh GO that increases the quota. Currently, the total reservation ceiling is capped at 50% as per Supreme Court guidelines. However, the state is exploring legal avenues to justify the enhancement by citing empirical data collected through a caste survey and the findings of the Dedication Commission.
Legal experts have reportedly advised the government that a higher quota may be defensible if supported by verifiable socio-economic data. The proposed GO is expected to reference the caste-based survey and commission report to substantiate the 42% reservation for BCs.
A final decision is likely to be taken at the state cabinet meeting scheduled for July 10. If approved, the government will initiate the necessary procedures to implement the revised quota. In the event of a legal challenge, the government is reportedly prepared to contest the matter, citing data and constitutional backing.