Maharashtra local body polls: Supreme Court orders govt, EC to hold elections by January 31, 2026

Maharashtra local body Polls: In a significant development, the Supreme Court comprising of a bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi directed government and State Election Commission today to conduct the local body elections in the State by January 31, 2026. Along with it, the top court also directed the State authorities to complete the delimitation process by October 10.

The Supreme Court Statement Over Delay

Notably, the Supreme Court has expressed its dissatisfaction with the State Election Commission for the delay, despite the prior order on May 6 to announce local body elections within four weeks and conduct polls within four months.

In his statement, Justice Suryakant stated, "Have the elections already been conducted?" in connection with the May order that mandated elections to be conducted within four months.

State Election Commission asks for more time

After the order, a lawyer representing Maharashtra stated that the process is underway. He said delimitation has been completed and the State Election Commission is requesting some additional time, adding that an interim application has also been filed in this regard.

To which, Justice Suryakant asked, "Why should we grant you time until January?"

Meanwhile, Justice Suryakant replied, "Your inaction reflects incompetence... Please explain the reasons orally."

Replying to it, the lawyer stated that they currently have 65,000 EVM machines and need 50,000 more, orders have already been placed for the same.

The top court allowed extension

The top court has now allowed an additional extension and gave a new deadline for holding local elections in Maharashtra. The court added that no further extensions will be given.