Amaravati, August 18, 2026: The Andhra Pradesh government has announced an increase in reservation for Backward Classes (BCs) in local body elections, raising the quota in rural local bodies to 34%.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said the decision fulfils a key election promise of the TDP-led NDA government and is aimed at strengthening political representation and social justice for BC communities.
For urban local bodies, the government has decided to provide 33.33% reservation for BCs, while elections for mayors and municipal chairpersons will be conducted through direct polling.
The decisions were announced after a special Cabinet meeting and come as the state prepares for local body elections, which are expected to be held later this year.
Naidu said BC communities account for more than half of Andhra Pradesh’s population and described the move as a step towards their political empowerment. He said the government’s objective extends beyond reservation and includes improving opportunities for BC communities through education, skill development, employment, entrepreneurship and greater participation in governance.
The enhanced reservation is expected to have a significant impact on the upcoming local body elections and grassroots political representation across Andhra Pradesh.
The government has positioned the move as part of its broader social justice agenda, with the ruling alliance reiterating its commitment to increasing the participation of BC communities in local governance.