Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Nov 8: The Bombay High Court on Friday directed the Maharashtra government and the State Election Commission (SEC) to file affidavits in response to several petitions challenging the ward reservation and delimitation process in multiple municipal corporations, including Mumbai, Thane, and Vasai-Virar.

A division bench of Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar and Justice Gautam Ankhad clarified that its direction should not be seen as a restriction on the state or the SEC from proceeding with preparations for the local body elections. The court stated that all actions taken by the authorities would remain subject to the outcome of the petitions.

“We would further indicate that this order... shall not be construed as if the Election Commission or the state government shall not proceed with the issuance of notice, preparation for conducting elections of all local bodies within the stipulated time,” the bench said in its order.

Earlier this week, the High Court dismissed a few petitions related to voter list concerns, including issues over name transfers, objection deadlines, and missing names despite online applications. The state, opposing all petitions, referred to the Supreme Court’s orders dated May 6 and September 16, directing completion of all local body elections by January 31, 2026.

The bench observed that the Supreme Court’s directives were aimed at ensuring timely conduct and completion of elections. Granting limited time for replies, the High Court asked the state and SEC to submit their affidavits by November 24, and allowed petitioners to file rejoinders by November 27, when the matter will be heard for final disposal.