The local body elections in Telangana have reached a crucial milestone with the conclusion of the village panchayat elections, which began on November 25 and ended on Wednesday. Following this, the state government is considering the next course of action. The ruling Congress party, which secured a majority in the panchayat elections, is planning to hold municipal elections as part of its strategy to showcase its dominance not only in rural areas but also in urban regions. Party sources indicate that the municipal elections could be held as early as January, provided all arrangements are made. However, a key issue that needs resolution before the municipal elections is the decision regarding BC (Backward Classes) reservations.
In the panchayat elections, the Revanth Reddy-led government had made efforts to implement a 42% reservation for BCs through a special Government Order (GO). However, the courts ruled that the total reservations cannot exceed 50%, forcing the government to suspend the GO. Additionally, due to the lack of ruling bodies in the panchayats, the central funds amounting to Rs. 3,000 crore have been delayed. The government is now working to secure these funds before the end of the financial year and has issued a new GO to proceed with the panchayat elections in accordance with the earlier reservation policy.
With the court’s mandate limiting the total reservations to 50%, the Congress party is considering allocating 42% of the seats to BCs in the upcoming municipal elections. The issue is expected to be discussed in the next Cabinet meeting, where a final decision is likely to be made. There is also speculation within the party that the municipal elections could be held first, followed by the panchayat elections.