Jaipur: The state govt has extended the tenure of the five-member OBC (Political Representation) Commission, headed by retired judge Madan Lal Bhati, till March 31, 2027, giving it more time to further examine and study caste-wise demographic data and political representation of Other Backward Classes in urban local bodies and Panchayati Raj institutions.The commission, constituted in May 2025 to provide an empirical basis for OBC reservation in local elections, submitted its recommendations to the state govt on Aug 5. The terms of reference for its extended tenure will be issued separately.The social justice and empowerment department issued an order extending the tenure of Bhati and the four other members — Mohan Morwal, Prof Rajiv Saxena, advocate Gopal Krishna and Pawan Mandaviya — till March 31, 2027.According to the govt’s order, the terms of reference for the commission’s extended tenure will be issued separately. This leaves open the scope of the commission’s work during the extended period, including any further examination or study that the govt may assign to it.“It will provide the Commission with the necessary time and a wider opportunity to continue its work on matters related to the political representation of the Other Backward Classes. The Commission will further carry out the prescribed tasks related to reservation for the Other Backward Classes in urban local bodies and Panchayati Raj institutions,” the order stated.Commission chairperson Madan Lal Bhati said the extension would provide an opportunity to undertake a more comprehensive study of issues concerning the political representation of OBCs. He said the commission would discharge its responsibilities with impartiality and transparency and in accordance with the constitutional framework.
