Maharashtra: BJP To Contest Civic Polls Solo, Elections Expected In May

Pune, 14th January 2025: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has indicated that elections for all civic bodies across the state are likely to take place in May, pending a verdict from the Supreme Court on the inclusion of the OBC quota in municipal polls and the finalization of the number of seats in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The announcement was made during the BJP’s state convention in Shirdi on Sunday.
Speaking to party members, Fadnavis emphasized the need for BJP workers to start preparations immediately. “We expect the Supreme Court to deliver its decision by the end of January, and the elections will likely follow in May. This gives us around 100 days to prepare. Local units will play a crucial role in ensuring the party’s success,” a BJP leader who attended the meeting quoted the CM as saying.
During the convention, Fadnavis also stressed that the BJP is likely to contest the civic polls independently but urged ministers and office bearers to avoid making negative remarks about Mahayuti allies, including the Shiv Sena and the NCP. “Mahayuti was formed in the larger interest of the state, and maintaining good relations with our allies is essential, even if we contest the elections solo,” a BJP MLA revealed.
The message comes amidst reports of internal discord within the opposition alliance, the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), following their poor performance in the assembly elections. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut recently announced that his party would contest local body polls separately, a decision that reportedly surprised Congress and NCP leaders.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has previously urged BJP workers to focus on gaining control of all civic bodies in Maharashtra, following the party’s success in the parliamentary and state assembly elections. Currently, 29 municipal corporations, 257 municipal councils, 26 zilla parishads, and 289 panchayats in the state are overdue for elections, with their terms ending nearly three years ago. These bodies are currently being managed by administrators in the absence of elected representatives.
The delay in elections is primarily due to the ongoing Supreme Court case concerning OBC reservations in local body polls. The Election Commission of India has been unable to conduct the elections until the court delivers its verdict.
“The upcoming elections are critical for the party’s mission to expand its influence at the local governance level. CM Fadnavis’ clear directives have set the tone for an aggressive and focused campaign,” another BJP functionary commented.
As the political climate in Maharashtra heats up, all eyes are now on the Supreme Court’s impending decision, which will pave the way for long-overdue local body elections across the state.