33% Reservation for Youth in Legislatures Needed: AP Speaker

Chintakayala Ayyanna Patrudu, Speaker of the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly, made a significant proposal emphasizing the need to increase youth participation in national development. He suggested that at least 33 percent of seats in legislatures should be reserved on a rotational basis for individuals below the age of 40. Speaking at the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Western Region Conference held in Goa on the theme “Role of Young Legislators in National Development,” he expressed concern over the age gap between citizens and their representatives. While the average age of an Indian citizen is around 32 years, the average age of Lok Sabha members is 56, and that of Andhra Pradesh MLAs is 53. He pointed out that this nearly 20-year gap needs serious consideration. He also noted that youth under the age of 40 constitute only 11 percent in the 18th Lok Sabha and just 7 percent in the Andhra Pradesh Assembly.

Ayyanna Patrudu further stated that the behavior of some legislators is discouraging young people from engaging in politics. He emphasized that only when public representatives demonstrate exemplary conduct will youth develop respect for the political system. He attributed the decline in youth participation partly to the reduced role of student politics and the lack of leadership emerging from universities. Recalling his own journey, he mentioned that he became an MLA at the age of 25 due to opportunities provided by N. T. Rama Rao in 1982. Drawing parallels with women’s reservation, he advocated for similar reservations for youth in legislatures. Despite potential criticism, he asserted that bringing young people into legislative bodies with fresh ideas is essential for building a better future for the country.