Overview

• The High Court stayed G.O.Ms. 9, 41 and 42, holding the 42% BC quota would raise total reservations to 67% in prima facie breach of the 50% cap, and set timelines of four weeks for the state’s counter and two more for replies with the matter next listed around early December.
• The bench clarified it did not halt the election process and said the State Election Commission may run polls under the prior reservation pattern by notifying the additional BC seats as open category in line with Supreme Court guidance.
• Despite the clarification, the State Election Commission has suspended further poll activities and has sought the government’s guidance on reservation status before proceeding.
• The Telangana government is preparing to approach the Supreme Court against the interim stay after consultations with senior leaders and counsel, with a final decision expected at an October 16 cabinet meeting.
• Backward Classes organisations have announced a statewide bandh on October 14 to demand implementation of the 42% quota, escalating political pressure on the issue.