A Bench of Justices Surya Kant and NK Singh issued the directions “subject to the outcome of these proceedings and without prejudice to the issues sought to be raised.” The court also said an endeavour should be made to complete the entire election process within four months from the date of notification. However, it allowed for an extension in appropriate cases.
The court’s order is expected to end a prolonged delay in civic elections across Maharashtra, which had been stalled due to the legal and political impasse over implementing OBC reservation.
The Bench made it clear that the elections must move forward under the earlier OBC reservation framework and that the State Election Commission is responsible for promptly initiating the process.
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