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Politics
AP High Court nullifies 34% BC quota in local body elections, setback for Naidu government
✍️ Moneycontrol.com
🗓 02 Oct 2026, 02:33 AM
👁 14
The Andhra Pradesh High Court has struck down the 34% reservation for Backward Classes in upcoming local body polls, dealing a blow to the Naidu administration's plans.
The Andhra Pradesh High Court delivered a verdict annulling the 34% reservation earmarked for Backward Classes in the state's forthcoming local body elections. The judgment effectively removes the quota that had been slated for panchayat and municipal polls across the state.
Legal counsel for the petitioners argued that the reservation exceeded constitutional limits, prompting the bench to examine the statutory framework governing local self‑government. The court concluded that the quota could not be upheld under the current legal provisions.
The decision is being described as a setback for the administration led by N. Chandrababu Naidu, which had advocated for the reservation as part of its broader social welfare agenda. Officials indicated that the ruling may require a revision of the electoral schedule and could prompt the government to seek clarification from the Supreme Court.
Election authorities are expected to issue new guidelines in line with the High Court's order, while political parties assess the impact on their campaign strategies ahead of the polls.
Legal counsel for the petitioners argued that the reservation exceeded constitutional limits, prompting the bench to examine the statutory framework governing local self‑government. The court concluded that the quota could not be upheld under the current legal provisions.
The decision is being described as a setback for the administration led by N. Chandrababu Naidu, which had advocated for the reservation as part of its broader social welfare agenda. Officials indicated that the ruling may require a revision of the electoral schedule and could prompt the government to seek clarification from the Supreme Court.
Election authorities are expected to issue new guidelines in line with the High Court's order, while political parties assess the impact on their campaign strategies ahead of the polls.