Ward reservation: State govt seeks more time

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru:

The state government has filed an Interlocutory Application (IA) before the Karnataka High Court seeking three months of time to issue notification on ward reservation. The move is being seen as a bid by the Bommai administration to delay the municipal body elections.

The Urban Development Department (UDD) has requested for an extension of time to comply with the order by HC. The IA claims that Dr Justice K Bhaktavatsala Commission requires more time to collect data on the Backward classes.

They have requested for three months starting November 30. “I submit that the interest of all the parties are duly protected if the extension as sought for is granted. The said Commission is to ensure that backward classes are duly represented and it is with this bona fide intention that the present application is being made.

No injustice will be caused to any person if the present application is allowed,” the IA read. Several writ petitions had been filed against the ward reservation. Based on this, the High Court quashed the notification and ordered the government to create a fresh set. The government earlier had 28 wards for SC, four for ST, and 81 seats for OBCs.

The Opposition has slammed the government, alleging that they are deliberately stalling the municipal body elections. The BBMP is currently run by government-appointed officers and has been since September 2020