Maharashtra Civic Polls: Mumbai's Election and Key Political Dynamics
Maharashtra elections underway; Mumbai crucial with Thackeray cousins reuniting after two decades.
Photo by Emil Dosen
Key Facts
29 municipal corporations: Elections in Maharashtra
3.48 crore voters: Participating in the polls
2,869 corporators: To be elected
Mumbai: Key focus due to political reunion
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper II: Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice & International relations
Role of Urban Local Bodies in governance and development
Constitutional provisions related to municipal elections
Visual Insights
Maharashtra Municipal Corporation Elections 2026: Key Locations
Map showing the locations of the 29 municipal corporations holding elections in Maharashtra. Highlights Mumbai due to its political significance.
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More Information
Background
The history of municipal governance in India dates back to the British era. The Madras Municipal Corporation, established in 1688, was the first municipal corporation in India. This was followed by the establishment of municipal corporations in Bombay and Calcutta in 1726.
These early municipal bodies primarily served the interests of the British administration. Post-independence, the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992 aimed to strengthen urban local bodies by granting them constitutional status and mandating regular elections. This act provided for the constitution of municipalities at three levels: Nagar Panchayats for transitional areas, Municipal Councils for smaller urban areas, and Municipal Corporations for larger urban areas.
The Act also devolved powers and responsibilities to these bodies, enabling them to function as institutions of self-government.
Latest Developments
In recent years, there has been increasing focus on financial autonomy and capacity building of municipal corporations. The Fifteenth Finance Commission recommended grants to urban local bodies based on their performance in areas such as property tax collection and service delivery. Several states have also been experimenting with direct election of mayors to enhance accountability.
Furthermore, the Smart Cities Mission, launched in 2015, has aimed to improve urban infrastructure and quality of life in selected cities. The mission emphasizes citizen participation and the use of technology to address urban challenges. Going forward, municipal corporations are expected to play a crucial role in achieving sustainable urban development goals and addressing issues such as climate change and urban poverty.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act: 1. It mandates the establishment of State Election Commissions for conducting elections to municipalities. 2. It provides for reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in municipalities in proportion to their population. 3. It empowers the Governor of a state to dissolve a municipality before the completion of its term. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: A
Statement 1 and 2 are correct. The power to dissolve a municipality rests with the State Government, not the Governor.
2. Which of the following committees is/are associated with reforms in municipal governance in India? 1. Balwant Rai Mehta Committee 2. Ashok Mehta Committee 3. L.M. Singhvi Committee Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- A.1 only
- B.2 only
- C.3 only
- D.2 and 3 only
Show Answer
Answer: C
The L.M. Singhvi Committee is associated with reforms in local self-government, including municipal governance. The Balwant Rai Mehta and Ashok Mehta Committees are primarily associated with Panchayati Raj institutions.
3. Consider the following statements regarding the State Election Commission: 1. It is responsible for conducting elections to Panchayats and Municipalities. 2. The Governor of the state appoints the State Election Commissioner. 3. The conditions of service and tenure of office of the State Election Commissioner are determined by the Election Commission of India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: A
Statements 1 and 2 are correct. The conditions of service and tenure of the State Election Commissioner are determined by the Governor.