Maharashtra civic body polls: Campaigning ends, SEC enforces MCC — all you need to know

NEW DELHI: Maharashtra is ready to host its Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation polls. Announcing the schedule at a press conference, state election commissioner Dinesh Waghmare said the model code of conduct has come into effect across the concerned districts.The announcement follows the Supreme Court’s order with an extended deadline to complete the local body election process in the state. The apex court provided a two-week extension, making January 31 the deadline for the completion of the poll process.

BMC polls: When and where

Voting will take place across 12 districts for the Zilla Parishads and their corresponding 125 Panchayat Samitis. Around 25,482 polling stations will be set up for the exercise.Polling hours will be from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm on February 5.

Key dates

Voter lists and voting process

The voter list prepared by the Election Commission of India as of July 1, 2025, will be used. The SEC clarified that voter rolls have already been separated for ZP and Panchayat Samiti segments, and no additions or deletions will be permitted at this stage.Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), including ballot and control units, will be deployed in large numbers.

Accessibility and special arrangements

Polling stations will offer facilities such as ramps, wheelchairs, drinking water and toilets for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, pregnant women and voters with infants. In areas with a high concentration of women voters, all-women polling booths will be set up where feasible.

Administration and expenditure rules

Thousands of election officers and staff have been appointed to oversee the exercise. The commission has also prescribed expenditure limits for candidates, varying by constituency size and category.

Code of conduct & campaign rules

Campaigning will end 48 hours before polling begins. The SEC warned that strict action will be taken against violations of the model code of conduct.