In a significant development, the Supreme Court has directed the Maharashtra government and the State Election Commission (SEC) to conduct local body elections across the state by January 31, 2026. The apex court emphasized strict adherence to the timeline and made it clear that no further extensions will be allowed.

A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi issued the order while also instructing the state authorities to complete the delimitation exercise in Maharashtra by October 10, 2025. The court expressed displeasure over the delay, noting that the State Election Commission failed to act promptly despite a reasoned order passed on May 6, 2025, which mandated notifying local body polls within four weeks and conducting elections within four months.

Highlighting the urgency, the Supreme Court granted a final extension for the completion of local polls, stressing that the prescribed schedule must be strictly followed.