Mumbai Civic Body Assures Free, Fair and Transparent BMC Elections 2025–26

Political Parties Briefed on Nominations, Poll Expenditure and Code of Conduct at BMC Headquarters

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has reaffirmed its firm commitment to conducting the BMC General Elections 2025–26 in a free, fearless, transparent and disciplined manner, assuring all stakeholders that the entire electoral process will strictly adhere to democratic principles and statutory norms.

Addressing representatives of various political parties at a high-level coordination meeting held at the BMC headquarters on December 22, 2025, Municipal Commissioner and District Election Officer Bhushan Gagrani stated that the municipal administration and election machinery are fully prepared to ensure an impartial and credible election.

“Political parties play a decisive role in strengthening democracy. Strict adherence to the Model Code of Conduct prescribed by the State Election Commission is essential to maintain fairness, transparency and public trust in the electoral process,” Mr. Gagrani emphasized, urging parties, office-bearers and workers to actively cooperate with election officials.

Extensive Administrative and Technical Preparations

During the meeting, election authorities provided detailed briefings on administrative, technical and legal aspects of the upcoming polls. Political parties were informed about the operational structure of 23 Election Returning Officer (ERO) offices set up across Mumbai, along with their respective jurisdictions.

Officials explained procedures related to filing of nomination papers, scrutiny of applications, objection mechanisms, and daily election-related coordination, ensuring that candidates face no technical hurdles during the nomination process. Necessary systems have been put in place at the Returning Officer level to facilitate smooth submissions.

Strict Compliance for Nomination Papers

Additional Municipal Commissioner (City) Dr. Ashwini Joshi highlighted the importance of accuracy while filing nomination forms. She cautioned candidates to submit information only in the prescribed formats, stressing that affidavits must be fully and correctly filled.

Any blank column or incorrect declaration in affidavits may result in cancellation of candidature, she warned, adding that the administration has issued comprehensive guidance to prevent avoidable rejections.

Voter Awareness and Election Expenditure Monitoring

Joint Commissioner (Assessment & Collection) Vishwas Shankarwar stated that increasing voter turnout remains a top priority. Under the SVEEP (Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation) programme, the BMC is actively conducting awareness campaigns, while political parties were urged to motivate citizens to vote.

He further reminded candidates that election expenditure norms set by the State Election Commission are mandatory, requiring detailed records of campaign spending and timely submission of expense accounts.