Pune Municipal Elections Likely Around Diwali, Ward Structure to Be Finalized by September 4

Reported by Mubarak Ansari
Pune, 12th June 2025: In a major development related to local body elections in Maharashtra, the State Election Commission is gearing up to initiate the electoral process, with a clear indication that elections could be announced any time after September 4, the deadline for finalizing the ward structure. This sets the stage for civic polls likely to be held around Diwali, with the model code of conduct expected to be imposed during the festive season.

As per the government directive, the final notification of ward structures for municipal corporations, municipalities, Nagar Panchayats, Zilla Parishads, and Panchayat Samitis must be published by September 4. Once this crucial step is completed, the election process is expected to move swiftly.

All major political parties have already begun strategizing, eyeing a power shift in several key civic bodies across the state. From Pune and Mumbai to smaller towns and rural belts, preparations are in full swing with political workers mobilizing at the grassroots.

With local-level dynamics playing a pivotal role, the elections are expected to be a colorful and fiercely contested affair, influenced by party factionalism, emerging leadership, and intense candidate rivalries.

The ward structure is a critical precursor to the polls, as it directly impacts the electoral boundaries and reservation categories. Political observers note that any delay or dispute in this process could affect the timing of the elections, but as things stand, October–November 2025 remains the likely window for polling.

With Diwali falling in the first week of November this year, the imposition of the model code of conduct during the festive period may also impact ongoing public works and political campaigns.

As anticipation builds, all eyes are now on the Election Commission’s next move post-September 4.