Overview
- The Telangana government issued GO Ms. No. 9 on September 26 to provide 42% reservation for Backward Classes in seats and posts across local bodies, citing a caste survey and a dedicated commission’s findings.
- A division bench issued notice on writ petitions, asked how the GO was issued while an amendment to Section 285A is awaiting the Governor’s assent, and clarified the cases survive even if an election notification is issued.
- The High Court fixed October 8 for detailed hearing and directed that any quota increase must comply with constitutional provisions and limits laid down by the Supreme Court.
- Petitioners argue the move would lift total reservations to about 67% against the ~50% cap, while the state defends the order by invoking Articles 40, 243D(6) and 243T(6) and asserting legislative competence.
- Election preparations continue with departments instructed to earmark 42% BC seats before the poll schedule, as the earlier September 30 timeline for local body elections faces possible adjustment by the court.