Why Did the SC Reject the Plea Against Telangana's BC Reservation?
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Synopsis
In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court dismissed a petition challenging the Telangana government's 42 percent reservation for Backward Classes in rural bodies. This move underscores the state's commitment to inclusivity as local elections approach, ensuring representation for marginalized communities.
Key Takeaways
- The Supreme Court declined to hear a petition against the Telangana government's reservation policy.
- The policy allocates 42 percent reservation to Backward Classes in local governance.
- The decision was influenced by ongoing cases in the Telangana High Court.
- The state government remains committed to implementing the reservation during local elections.
- Local body elections are set for October-November 2023.
New Delhi, Oct 6 (NationPress) The Supreme Court, on Monday, declined to entertain a writ petition that contested the Telangana government's directive to allocate 42 percent reservation for the Backward Classes (BCs) in rural governance within the state.
A bench led by Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta chose not to hear the petition, citing that the issue is currently before the Telangana High Court, and thus dismissed the plea submitted by Vanga Gopal Reddy.
Senior advocates Abhishek Manu Singhvi, Siddharth Dave, and A.D.N. Rao, representing the state government, highlighted to the bench that two similar petitions are already under consideration in the High Court.
The bench inquired why the petitioner sought relief under Article 32.
In response to the petitioner’s claim that the High Court had not issued a stay, the bench questioned how the Supreme Court could be approached when the High Court denied the stay request.
Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, accompanied by Ministers Ponnam Prabhakar and Vakiti Srihari, expressed their approval of the Supreme Court's decision following the hearing.
Speaking to reporters outside the Supreme Court, the Deputy Chief Minister reiterated the state government's pledge to ensure 42 percent reservation for BCs in education, employment, and local governance.
He confirmed that the government intends to implement the BC reservation during the local body elections.
"With local body elections on the horizon, the state government has passed a Bill and issued a government order (GO). We are steadfast in our commitment and will advocate for it," he stated.
The Deputy Chief Minister and state Ministers previously conferred with Manu Singhvi, a Rajya Sabha member from Telangana, and Dave.
Government attorney Shravan Kumar and Congress BC Cell Chairman Anil Jaihind were also present during this meeting.
The Deputy Chief Minister and Ministers assured the lawyers that the GO for 42 percent reservations for BCs in local bodies was issued in accordance with the Supreme Court's established guidelines.
They further explained that the GO was based on a caste survey, empirical data collection regarding BCs, the formation of a dedicated BC Commission, and an expert group's assessment of the caste survey results.
Last week, the State Election Commission announced the schedule for rural local body elections, which will occur in five phases throughout October and November this year.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the Supreme Court's decision as a reflection of the ongoing legal processes within the state. The commitment to Backward Classes representation in local governance aligns with broader national efforts towards equality and social justice. Our stance remains with the nation, advocating for inclusive policies that empower marginalized communities.
NationPress
07/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Supreme Court's ruling on the Telangana government order?
The Supreme Court refused to admit a writ petition challenging the Telangana government's order that provides 42 percent reservation to Backward Classes in rural bodies.
Who represented the Telangana government in this case?
The Telangana government was represented by senior lawyers Abhishek Manu Singhvi, Siddharth Dave, and A.D.N. Rao.
What does the Telangana government say about the BC reservation?
The government is committed to implementing 42 percent reservation for Backward Classes in education, employment, and local bodies, especially during upcoming local elections.
What is the current status of the related petitions?
There are already two petitions pending before the Telangana High Court regarding this issue.
When will the rural local body elections take place?
The elections are scheduled to occur in five phases throughout October and November of this year.
