Maharashtra SEC to Announce Poll Schedule for 12 Zilla Parishads, 125 Panchayat Samitis

The Maharashtra State Election Commission (SEC) will announce the election schedule for 12 zilla parishads and 125 panchayat samitis on Tuesday. This announcement comes as campaigning for 29 municipal corporation polls concludes across the state.

Supreme Court Grants Extension for Elections

The SEC's move follows a Supreme Court decision on Monday. The court allowed an extension for holding these elections beyond the January 31 deadline. The poll panel had requested time until February 10, but the court extended the deadline to February 15.

The Supreme Court directed the SEC to complete elections for the 12 zilla parishads and 125 panchayat samitis. These bodies have not exceeded the 50 percent reservation limit set by law.

Current Status of Local Body Elections

Elections for 32 zilla parishads and 336 panchayat samitis remain pending across Maharashtra. Out of these, 20 zilla parishads and 211 panchayat samitis exceed the 50 percent reservation cap. Their elections will depend on further orders from the Supreme Court.

The SEC has prioritized the 12 districts and 125 panchayat samitis that fall within permissible legal reservation limits. Out of the total 34 zilla parishads, 32 are currently overseen by administrators. Only Bhandara and Gondia have elected bodies, with terms expiring in May 2027.

Among the 351 panchayat samitis across Maharashtra, 336 are run by administrators. These are the bodies where elections need to be conducted.

Timing and Practical Considerations

The SEC will hold a press conference at 4 pm to announce the detailed schedule. Polling for zilla parishad and panchayat samiti elections will likely occur before February 10. This timing avoids conflict with state board examinations for Class 12, which begin on February 10.