The local body elections in Telangana are likely to be postponed once again. The Revanth Reddy government has decided to delay the polls until the 42% BC reservation bill receives approval, which could affect the Panchayat and Parishad elections.
The bill is currently pending with both the President and the Governor. If no decision is reached before September 30, the state government plans to move the High Court for clarity on the issue.
Congress sources suggest the government hopes to delay the elections until after the Bihar polls, which are expected around November. The party may request the High Court for two to three months’ time to hold the elections.
During the Cabinet meeting on August 30, the Revanth Reddy government resolved to lift the reservation limit in local body elections. However, analysts believe the delay is also due to the uncertain political mood in the state.
According to experts, Revanth Reddy is not confident about facing local body polls immediately. They argue that a Congress win in Bihar could shift voter sentiment in Telangana, which is why the elections are being pushed back strategically.
