CPI(M) opposes direct mayor election, but backs quota for BCs
Direct election to the posts of mayor and chairperson will lead to concentration of power, it says and cautions the government against rushing through the reservation process to meet deadlines linked to Finance Commission grants
The Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) has voiced its opposition to direct mayoral and chairperson elections in local body elections, but supports the government's decision to grant a 34% reservation for the Backward Classes (BCs). State secretary V. Srinivasa Rao clarified that direct elections would erode the influence of corporators, councillors, and MPTC and ZPTC members who interact directly with the populace.
He emphasized the need to retain the current system and urged legislative and constitutional changes at the national level to effectively implement the 34% BC reservation, as suggested by the Mishra Commission. Srinivasa Rao also cautioned the ruling alliance against hastily enacting the reservation process to meet Finance Commission grant deadlines, stressing the importance of ensuring legal sustainability and effective implementation of the proposed quota.
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