Jharkhand OBC Test Completion Paves the Way for Municipal Elections

The Jharkhand Backward Classes Commission has finalized the high court-mandated triple test essential for determining the quantum of reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in urban local bodies, the Commission's chairperson, Janaki Prasad Yadav, announced. This accomplishment is anticipated to unlock the pathway for the municipal elections, which have been deferred since 2020 due to unclear OBC quotas.

The tenures of 35 other local civic bodies lapsed in March-April 2023, necessitating a timely resolution. Yadav informed that the Commission received a detailed social assessment report from St Xavier's College. This report is under review and will soon be submitted to the chief minister. The assessment focused on updating social, economic, and political participation data of OBCs in the state.

Commission Secretary K K Singh elucidated that the triple test includes forming the OBC commission, updating voter lists across districts, and physical verification of the data, all of which have now been achieved. Post-report submission, the urban development department and the state cabinet are expected to finalise the timeline for the elections, with potential delays affecting central funds and future federal grants.

(With inputs from agencies.)