SC orders Maharashtra local body polls by Jan 31, 2026

The Supreme Court on Tuesday (September 16, 2025) fixed January 31, 2026, as the final deadline for holding the long-pending local body elections in Maharashtra, while censuring the State Election Commission (SEC) for its “failure to take prompt action” and adhere to earlier timelines.

A Bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi stressed that the extension was being granted as a “one-time concession” and warned that no further extension would be permitted.

“Elections of all local bodies, including Zila Parishads, Panchayat Samitis and municipalities, shall be conducted by January 31, 2026. No further extension shall be granted to the state or the state election commission. In case any other logistic assistance is required, SEC should approach this court before October 31, 2025. No such prayer will be entertained thereafter,” the order stated.