Telangana Local Elections Likely to Face Delay Over BC Reservation Issue

Government Seeks More Time Over 42% BC Reservation

The Telangana government has told the High Court that elections cannot be held at present because legislation to implement 42% reservation for Backward Classes (BCs) has not yet received the necessary approvals. The High Court had earlier set a deadline of September 30 for conducting panchayat and municipal polls, but the state says that meeting that timeline is not feasible given the pending clearances.

Bills Pending With Governor and President

In a recent special Assembly session, the state legislature passed amendments to Section 285(A) of the Panchayati Raj Act, 2018 and Section 29 of the Municipal Act, 2019 to facilitate reservation beyond the previous 50% cap. These bills have been sent for the Governor’s assent and are expected to be referred to the President — a process that officials say may take time.

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Despite multiple delegations led by the Chief Minister, ministers and MPs visiting Delhi and staging protests to press for quick approval, there is as yet no clarity from the central authorities. The delay at both the Governor’s and President’s offices is the principal reason cited by the government for requesting an extension from the High Court.

New Timeline — September Looks Unlikely

Officials indicate that meeting the court’s September 30 deadline appears unlikely. If the court grants additional time for the reservation decision to be finalized, sources say local elections could be pushed to late November 2025. The government has formally requested the High Court for this extension, citing the administrative and legal steps required to implement the reservation changes before holding polls.

Political Ramifications

The postponement may carry political consequences. Opposition parties are expected to criticise the delay, while the ruling dispensation is banking on the implementation of 42% BC reservation to consolidate support among backward communities ahead of local elections. The outcome now hinges on decisions from the Governor and the President and on any directions the High Court chooses to issue.