Supreme Court Keeps Suspense Alive On Maharashtra Local Body Elections; Next Hearing On Friday
Supreme Court Keeps Suspense Alive On Maharashtra Local Body Elections; Next Hearing On Friday
New Delhi, November 25, 2025: The uncertainty surrounding Maharashtra’s local body elections continues, as the Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing on the reservation-related petition for Friday, November 28. The petition challenges instances where the 50% cap on reservations in several local self-governing bodies has reportedly been exceeded.
The case, filed by petitioner Vikas Gawli, alleges that multiple municipal bodies and councils in the state have breached the constitutionally mandated 50% reservation limit. The state government, however, maintains that the reservation structure was framed appropriately, citing the recommendations of the Bhatia Commission. The matter was initially heard on November 19, after which the Supreme Court set November 25 for further proceedings.
Where the 50% Cap Has Been Exceeded:
- Zilla Parishads: 17 out of 32
- Panchayat Samitis: 83 out of 336
- Municipal Councils: 40 out of 242
- Nagar Panchayats: 17 out of 46
- Municipal Corporations: 2 out of 29
Earlier, the Supreme Court had warned that elections cannot proceed where reservation limits exceed 50%, raising concerns over whether the scheduled polls would continue as planned. Voting for 246 municipal councils and 42 nagar panchayats is slated for December 2, with counting on December 3, prompting questions on the fate of the election process.
At the previous hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta represented the state government, while advocate Devdutt Palodkar appeared for the petitioner. During Tuesday’s proceedings, the court noted that it would not express any opinion at this stage. Mehta requested a short extension, citing the ongoing election preparations and the need to interpret previous court directives carefully.
Senior advocate Indira Jaising opposed the request, pointing out that election notifications had already been issued and nominations were completed. Petitioners reiterated that nearly 40% of municipal councils had violated reservation limits.
The Supreme Court, while reserving comments, clarified that elections must adhere to the court’s earlier directions. The Election Commission also sought more time, stating that any immediate order would require reclassification of reservation categories.
The bench, led by Chief Justice Suryakant, ultimately adjourned the matter, fixing the next hearing for Friday at 12 pm, prolonging the suspense over whether the elections will proceed as scheduled.
