Hyderabad: The Supreme Court will today (October 6) hear a crucial petition on Backward Class (BC) reservations in Telangana’s local body elections. The case created tension in the state as the government moved to defend its 42% BC quota, which critics say violates the 50% constitutional cap.
Petitioner Vanga Gopal Reddy challenged the Telangana High Court’s interim order on the elections. He argued that the government’s plan to raise BC quotas beyond limits violates the Constitution. He filed the petition on September 29, asking the Supreme Court to stay the state’s decision.
Telangana government prepares a strong stand in BC quota case
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka reviewed the issue closely. The government directed its legal team to argue firmly before the apex court. Last night, Bhatti reached Delhi with BC ministers to coordinate the legal strategy.
Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi will appear for the Telangana government. He is expected to argue that the higher quota ensures fair representation for BCs in local governance. Revanth Reddy also discussed legal points and political implications with Bhatti before the hearing.
Meanwhile, the issue triggered political debate across Telangana. Opposition parties accused the government of using BC reservations for electoral advantage.
The Supreme Court had earlier ruled that total reservations must not exceed 50%. However, Telangana’s move to grant a 42% BC quota pushes the overall limit higher. Therefore, the verdict will decide if the new quota survives or if the state must revise its election plan.
