Key AP High Court Verdict on BC Reservations

The Andhra Pradesh High Court has set aside two government orders providing 34 per cent reservation for Backward Classes in local body elections in the state, according to reports. The court reportedly held that the total reservation in local bodies should not exceed 59 per cent. It also observed that the government orders were contrary to the norms laid down by the Supreme Court.

The High Court has reportedly directed the authorities to initiate the local body election process within six weeks. It also dismissed a petition seeking to hold the elections only after completion of a caste census of Backward Classes. The ruling has brought the issue of reservations in Andhra Pradesh local body elections back into focus.