Rajasthan Civic Polls: OBC Reservation Requires Triple Test Survey, Says Minister Kharra

Rajasthan Urban Development and Housing (UDH) Minister Jhabar Singh Kharra has clarified the government's stance on the implementation of Other Backward Classes (OBC) reservation in the upcoming municipal elections. Speaking during his visit to Sikar, the Minister stated that while the state government is prepared to conduct the elections, the legal requirements regarding reservation must be strictly adhered to. According to the Minister, OBC reservation can't be implemented until the State Backward Classes Commission submits authorized data based on a comprehensive 'Triple Test' survey. This statement addresses the ongoing administrative preparations for urban local body polls across the state.

The Mandatory Triple Test and Supreme Court Precedents

Minister Jhabar Singh Kharra emphasized that the state must comply with the Supreme Court's rulings from 2022 and 2023, specifically those involving Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. The apex court has mandated a 'Triple Test' for providing OBC reservation in local body elections. 00% of the total seats. The Minister noted that any deviation from these guidelines could lead to legal challenges.

Data Discrepancies and the Role of the Backward Classes Commission

The Minister provided updates on the progress of the State Backward Classes Commission, which had previously requested an extension of its tenure. Although the commission had initially aimed to submit the data by March, recent evaluations revealed significant discrepancies in the data collected from various districts. Consequently, the commission has decided to conduct a fresh survey and study to ensure the data is accurate and meets the standards set by the Supreme Court. Minister Kharra stated that the government can only proceed with the reservation of seats once the commission provides a finalized and authenticated report regarding the demographic and social status of backward classes in urban areas.

High Court Validation of Delimitation and Restructuring

Addressing the legal disputes surrounding the delimitation of wards, the Minister highlighted a recent judgment by the Rajasthan High Court on March 6. The court upheld the validity of Section 10 of the Rajasthan Municipalities Act, which empowers the state government to carry out the delimitation and restructuring of municipal bodies and wards. Minister Kharra asserted that the restructuring work undertaken by the government is legally sound and has been validated by the judiciary. He clarified that the government has completed its part of the restructuring process, and the subsequent steps now depend on the findings of the Backward Classes Commission and the directives of the State Election Commission.

Timeline for Completion of Municipal Administrative Tasks

Regarding the timeline for the elections, the UDH Minister indicated that all remaining administrative and technical tasks related to municipal bodies are expected to be completed by September. The government is working to ensure that all constitutional and legal formalities are addressed to avoid any procedural delays in the polling process. He further mentioned that if any party has objections regarding the delimitation or the reservation process, they've the legal recourse to approach the Rajasthan High Court, as per the Supreme Court's observations. The state remains committed to a transparent process for ward determination and data compilation.

Inauguration of Shekhawati Panch Gaurav Industry Fair

The Minister's remarks came during the inauguration of the 'Shekhawati Panch Gaurav Industry' and 'Rajasakhi Fair' at the Urban Haat Bazaar on Jaipur Road in Sikar. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including former MP Sumedhanand Saraswati, ADM Ratan Kumar Swami, and District Industry Center General Manager Vikas Sihag. During the event, the Minister focused on the importance of promoting local industries and empowering women through self-help groups. He reiterated that the government is simultaneously focusing on developmental initiatives and the strengthening of democratic processes at the grassroots level.