The Governor of Maharashtra, on December 26, 2025, exercise of powers under Article 213 of the Constitution of India, has promulgated the Maharashtra Municipal Councils, Nagar Panchayats and Industrial Townships (Third Amendment) Ordinance, 2025, as both Houses of the State Legislature were not in session and immediate action was considered necessary. The Ordinance came into force with immediate effect.
The Ordinance amends the Maharashtra Municipal Councils, Nagar Panchayats and Industrial Townships Act, 1965 by inserting a new sub-section (3A) in section 51A-1A. It clarifies that if a person is elected both as President and as Councillor, such person may simultaneously hold both posts.
However, to avoid duplication of voting power, the Ordinance provides that such person shall have only one vote, exercisable either as President or as Councillor. In the event of equality of votes, the President shall have a casting vote.
A similar amendment has also been introduced in section 341B-1A of the principal Act, ensuring uniformity in governance provisions across municipal bodies. This amendment aims to remove ambiguity and facilitate smoother functioning of municipal councils.
[MAHARASHTRA ORDINANCE No. XIII OF 2025]
