Local polls: Andhra Pradesh High Court rejects YSRCP plea for more time to file nominations

The Andhra Pradesh High Court directs the State Election Commission to clarify its stand on a separate application to allow candidates who could not submit their nomination papers to do so at the district headquarters. | Photo credit: File Photo

A division bench of the Andhra Pradesh High Court comprising Justices Ninala Jayasurya and Chintalapudi Purushottam Kumar dismissed a petition filed by the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) seeking additional time to file nominations for the Urban Local Body (ULB) elections, for which the deadline was Sunday (October 18) at 3 pm.

The court refused to intervene in the electoral process, stating that it cannot act on it after notification and the expiration of the set period, and at the same time ordered the State Election Commission (SEC) to clarify its position on a separate application that will allow candidates who cannot present their nomination papers at their place to do so at the relevant district headquarters.

The counsel for the SEC informed the High Court that no additional time could be given to file nominations as the deadline has expired and the document review is scheduled for October 19 and the final list of contestants will be released on October 21. The ULBs are scheduled to go to polls on October 28 and the results will be declared on October 30.

The YSRCP approached the court complaining that “unlawful obstruction” and intimidation prevented several eligible and intended candidates from filing nominations. It sought to direct the SEC to give all such individuals a new and effective opportunity to formally enter the electoral arena.

However, the High Court dismissed the suit citing some relevant judgments and on the grounds that the petition had become moot.

Published – 18 Oct 2026 20:41 IST