Pune: Model Code of Conduct for Civic Polls Likely Next Week, Says Ajit Pawar
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Pune, November 1, 2025: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Friday indicated that the model code of conduct for the long-pending civic body elections across the state is expected to come into effect next week.
Speaking at a public rally in Baramati, Pawar said, “Many are requesting the release of funds for development works, but once the model code of conduct is implemented — likely from next week — no funds will be released until the zilla parishad, municipal council, and municipal corporation elections are completed.”
Pawar’s remarks come in the backdrop of the Supreme Court’s directive to the State Election Commission and the state government to complete all pending civic body elections before January 31, 2026. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has also assured that polls will be conducted within this timeframe.
The announcement of election dates will automatically bring the model code of conduct into force, barring the government from sanctioning new projects or making fresh policy announcements until the elections conclude.
Civic polls in Maharashtra have been delayed for over three years in several regions due to litigation over the OBC reservation issue. Following the Supreme Court’s verdict, the State Election Commission has begun preparations, including ward restructuring and finalising voter lists, to ensure smooth conduct of elections.
Meanwhile, in Mumbai, the opposition alliance Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) are set to protest against the Election Commission on Saturday over alleged discrepancies in the voters’ list. Leaders including Uddhav Thackeray, Raj Thackeray, Sharad Pawar, and representatives from Congress, PWP, and Left parties are expected to participate.
Sources said Sena (UBT) and MNS are also exploring legal options if the Election Commission fails to rectify voter list errors before the elections.
Both the Mahayuti and MVA alliances are gearing up for the civic polls, with discussions ongoing regarding possible seat-sharing and alliances, though the inclusion of MNS in MVA remains undecided.
