Sat Feb 07 16:38:55 UTC 2026: Headline: Telangana High Court Disposes of Petition on Ex-Officio Voting Rights in Municipal Elections

The Story:
On February 7, 2026, the Telangana High Court disposed of a writ petition filed by businessman K. Narender from Nirmal, which questioned the Nirmal District Collector’s alleged directive for public representatives to vote as ex-officio members in municipal chairman and vice-chairman elections. The court’s decision came after the government, represented by Additional Advocate General T. Rajanikanth Reddy, clarified that no specific decision had been made regarding Members of Parliament, Members of Legislative Assembly, Members of Legislative Council, and Rajya Sabha members choosing a specific urban body for voting in these elections. The government assured the court it would adhere to the High Court’s earlier verdict on the matter.

Key Points:

  • The petition was filed by K. Narender, a businessman from Nirmal.
  • The petition challenged the Nirmal District Collector’s purported instruction on ex-officio voting.
  • The government stated no final decision had been made on the matter.
  • Additional Advocate General T. Rajanikanth Reddy represented the government.
  • The High Court referenced its earlier verdict in writ petition number 20262 of 2021, which stated that public representatives could vote as ex-officio members in an urban civic body election only if they are registered voters in that municipality.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Telangana government is facing legal challenges regarding the voting rights of public representatives in municipal elections.
  • The High Court is ensuring adherence to its previous rulings on ex-officio voting rights.
  • The government’s response indicates a cautious approach, avoiding concrete decisions until legal clarity is achieved.

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