HC Verdict On Local Polls, Disappointment For YCP & TDP

Article by Kumar Published on: 1:01 pm, 1 October 2026

The Andhra Pradesh High Court delivered a crucial verdict on local body elections, directing the state government and the Election Commission to begin the election process within six weeks.

The High Court had previously concluded hearings on petitions concerning elections for Gram Panchayats and urban local bodies and had reserved its judgment. It has now issued orders on those petitions.

The High Court struck down two Government Orders (GOs) that provided 34% reservation for Backward Classes (BCs), stating that total reservations cannot exceed 50%.

Additionally, the Court dismissed the petition filed by the YSRCP which sought to hold local elections only after the completion of the ‘SIR’ (survey/enumeration) process as well as the petition challenging the delimitation of wards.

These judgments of the High Court mean one blow each to TDP and YSR Congress.

TDP is trying to woo the BC Voters with the 34% reservation, but the court struck it down. However, it is already expected, but TDP would have the credit for at least trying. We will have to see if they go to the Supreme Court over this.

YSR Congress do not want the elections to happen as the ruling party will always have advantage in local elections. Any negative result will expose its vulnerability and that will demoralize its cadres.

Hence, the party want to delay the elections in the name of SIR. So, this verdict will disappoint them.