'We Will Fight in Supreme Court': Naidu on 34% BC Quota
Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu vows to approach the Supreme Court after the High Court quashed the 34% BC reservation in local body elections.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has declared a legal battle to reclaim the 34 per cent reservation for Backward Classes (BCs) in local body elections. Speaking at the NTR Bharosa Pension Distribution programme in Repalle Municipality, the Chief Minister made it clear that his government will not back down after the state High Court struck down the government orders (GOs) providing the quota.
The High Court Ruling
The legal confrontation follows an October 1 decision by the Andhra Pradesh High Court, which quashed two government orders intended to provide a 34 per cent reservation for BC communities. The court's decision was based on several critical legal observations:
- The 50 Per Cent Ceiling: The High Court emphasized that total reservations must remain within the 50 per cent limit established by the Supreme Court.
- Lack of Empirical Data: The court questioned whether the state government had sufficient factual and statistical data to justify a specific 34 per cent quota.
- Legal Framework: The bench held that the current reservation arrangement was contrary to the existing legal framework governing such quotas.
Following the ruling, the High Court directed both the state government and the State Election Commission to begin the local body election process within a six-week timeframe.
Naidu's Commitment to BC Communities
Despite the judicial setback, Naidu maintained that the NDA government in Andhra Pradesh remains steadfast in its mission to ensure social and political justice for Backward Classes. He asserted that his administration is dedicated to the economic and social advancement of these communities.
"We will fight in the Supreme Court," Naidu stated, signaling his intent to challenge the High Court's decision at the highest level of the judiciary.
Delays in Recruitment and Representation
The Chief Minister also touched upon the broader impact of legal hurdles on state administration. He noted that while the government is pushing for significant recruitment initiatives—such as appointments through the District Selection Committee (DSC)—legal challenges have frequently caused delays in these essential processes.
Naidu assured the BC communities that the government would continue to strive for greater political representation and expanded welfare opportunities, even as they navigate the ongoing legal battles regarding electoral rolls and reservation quotas.