Jalgaon Zilla Parishad Election Postponed Due to 54% Reservation Dispute

The Jalgaon Zilla Parishad election has been delayed because reservation levels exceed the 50% legal cap. The Supreme Court hearing on the matter is pending, keeping the poll timeline uncertain

Jalgaon | February 14, 2026: The Jalgaon Zilla Parishad election in Maharashtra has been postponed amid a reservation dispute that has stalled the entire electoral process. Around 54% of seats have been reserved in local body constituencies, exceeding the 50% limit prescribed under law. Because of this, the Supreme Court of India has not yet delivered a final ruling on the validity of the reservation formula, leaving the election schedule in limbo.

While elections for 12 other district zilla parishads in the state have already concluded, Jalgaon’s poll process remains suspended pending judicial clarification. Officials say that until the Supreme Court gives clear guidance on whether the excess reservation is lawful or needs adjustment, the State Election Commission cannot set firm dates for polling.

The reservation controversy stems from Maharashtra’s decision to exceed the 50% cap on quotas for backward classes and other reserved categories in local body elections. Several districts, including Jalgaon, saw reservation levels beyond the constitutional limit, prompting legal challenges and judicial scrutiny.

The Supreme Court has previously indicated its concern over breaches of the reservation ceiling and has been hearing multiple related petitions. Observers note that the outcome of the hearing will not only impact the Jalgaon election but could also influence how reservation is applied in local body elections across the state.

Until the court’s decision is delivered, the election timetable for Jalgaon’s Zilla Parishad remains uncertain, with officials indicating that it may only proceed after key legal questions are resolved. The delay has sparked concern among local political parties and prospective candidates awaiting the poll notification.

Follow us On Our Social media Handles :
Instagram
Youtube
Facebook
Twitter

Also Read- Pune