Local Body Elections in Maharashtra May Be Postponed: Ajit Pawar Flags Reservation Issue

Mumbai: Maharashtra’s local body elections could face delays following a reservation controversy that has surpassed the 50% limit, putting both the state government and Election Commission in a challenging position. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has raised concerns over the possible postponement, citing ongoing litigation in the Supreme Court.

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The state’s local body elections are under scrutiny as the reservation for certain constituencies has exceeded the 50% constitutional limit, a matter currently pending before the Supreme Court of India. In a recent public address in Naldurg, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar stated that the district council elections might be delayed until the court resolves the issue.

The Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing for 25 November, which will be crucial in deciding whether the elections can proceed as planned. The top court had previously suggested that the nomination process could be deferred to accommodate legal proceedings.

Currently, elections for municipal councils and district councils are underway across Maharashtra. However, the second phase, including district council and panchayat committee elections, may face postponement if the court upholds the reservation challenge. Reports indicate that in 20 district councils, reservations have crossed the 50% mark, exceeding constitutional limits and raising doubts about the validity of upcoming elections.

If the court issues new directives, the Election Commission will need to reorganize the ward structure and conduct the reservation lottery afresh, potentially pushing the elections further. The third phase will include high-stakes elections in Mumbai BMC and other major municipal corporations, where political competition is expected to be intense.

Ajit Pawar emphasized the significance of the 25 November hearing and warned that election preparations may need to be revisited depending on the Supreme Court’s judgment.