Oppn demands

1. BJP & BRS accuse Congress of misleading people on 42% BC quota in local polls
2. Eatala, Srinivas Goud warn legal flaws 
3. Opposition seeks fool-proof legal backing
4. Model Code of Conduct in force; restrictions imposed on cash, gold and valuables above ₹50,000

The announcement of the local body election schedule has triggered strong reactions from opposition parties BJP and BRS, both accusing the Congress government of misleading people on the issue of BC reservations.

BJP MP Eatala Rajender, after holding a review with leaders of Huzurabad constituency, alleged that the government acted irresponsibly by announcing the schedule even while legal uncertainties remain. He recalled that BJP had fully supported the unanimous Assembly resolution for 42% BC reservations and continues to stand by it. However, he questioned the government’s move of filing affidavits after legislative approval, calling it an example of “lack of awareness and responsibility.”

Rajender cited instances reported in the media where villages without BC populations were still reserved for BCs, terming it a serious flaw in the reservation process. He demanded that the government clarify that elections would be conducted as per schedule without legal hurdles, warning that otherwise candidates would suffer heavy financial losses. Referring to Bihar and Maharashtra precedents where excess reservations were struck down by courts, he asked why Telangana was being pushed into similar risks.

Former minister and BRS leader V. Srinivas Goud also accused the Congress of running the government on “lies and deception.” He questioned the sincerity of the government in pushing for 42% BC reservations, pointing out that a simple G.O. was brought instead of pursuing constitutional safeguards like inclusion in the Ninth Schedule. He warned that even a small petition in the Supreme Court could nullify the entire election process, causing financial and political damage to BC candidates.

Both BJP and BRS stressed that they are not against enhanced BC reservations but condemned the Congress government’s “half-baked approach” which, they alleged, is designed to deceive people. They demanded the government come clean, ensure fool-proof legal backing for reservations, and protect the democratic process of local body elections.

Restrictions on Cash and Valuables due to Election Code

With the local poll schedule announced, the Model Code of Conduct is now in effect in 31 districts, imposing restrictions on moving cash, gold, silver, and valuables exceeding ₹50,000. Authorities have set up checkposts and are conducting inspections to curb illicit financial flows during elections. Individuals carrying such items must provide valid documentation, or face seizure by officials. Cash or valuables exceeding ₹10 lakh will be handed over to Income Tax authorities. 

A Grievance Committee, comprising the District Zilla Parishad CEO, Election Expenditure Monitoring Officer, and District Treasury Officer, meets daily at 4 PM to review seized items. Valid proof ensures prompt release, but amounts over ₹10 lakh require court intervention. Citizens are advised to carry bills for purchases or medical expenses to avoid complications.