The issue of BC quota reservation has now reached Delhi. Governor Jishnu Dev Varma sent the Panchayat Raj Act (Amendment) Ordinance – 2018 regarding BC quota in local elections to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs for legal advice.
Political parties are closely watching this development, eagerly awaiting the Governor’s decision. The High Court has set a deadline of September 30 for local body elections, increasing the urgency.
The state government planned to offer 42% reservations for BCs in these elections. Political circles are uncertain about the next steps if the Governor does not approve the plan.
The ordinance arrived at Raj Bhavan on July 15. Sources say the Governor must decide by July 29.
With little time left, the Governor consulted the state Advocate General to understand any legal issues that might arise if the ordinance passes.
The talks reportedly lasted over three hours. The Governor expressed concern that the ordinance might conflict with the Supreme Court‘s ruling, which limits reservations to 50%. The amendment bill is currently with the Union Home Ministry, prompting the ordinance’s referral to them as well.
