New Delhi / Mumbai (September16, 2025):
The Supreme Court has ordered the Maharashtra government and the State Election Commission (SEC) to conduct local body elections across the State no later than January 31, 2026.
A bench comprising Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi also instructed the authorities to *complete the delimitation process by October 10, 2025. The Court expressed displeasure that despite its earlier order on *May 6, 2025, which required the notification of local body polls within four weeks and elections within four months, the SEC had failed to act in time.
Court Sets Final Deadline for Maharashtra Polls
The apex court noted that repeated delays in conducting civic elections violated both the democratic process and citizens’ right to local self-governance. It granted a final extension but made it clear that no further delay will be tolerated.
The ruling comes as Maharashtra continues to witness political flux, with civic bodies such as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) functioning without elected representatives for over two years. This has raised concerns about accountability, governance, and transparency in local administration.
Background of the Case
In its May 6, 2025 order, the Supreme Court had directed the SEC to act swiftly to restore elected local governments. However, the delay in the delimitation exercise and administrative inaction led to petitions being filed before the Court.
Legal experts say this latest directive is a stern reminder to state authorities that democracy cannot be held hostage to administrative lapses. The Court’s insistence on a strict timeline is expected to bring much-needed clarity to the electoral process in Maharashtra.
Political Implications
The upcoming civic elections will be significant for all major parties, including the *Shiv Sena (UBT), **BJP, **NCP factions, and **Congress, as control over municipal corporations often translates into influence at the grassroots level. The BMC elections, in particular, are seen as a political battleground that could shape the narrative ahead of the *2029 General Elections.