Bombay High Court stays Maharashtra Cricket Association election over induction of nearly 400 new members

The Hindu
The Hindu
2h ago
The Bombay High Court stayed the Maharashtra Cricket Association election scheduled for January 6, 2026, citing prima facie illegality and lack of transparency in adding nearly 400 new members shortly before the polls.
Bombay High Court stays Maharashtra Cricket Association election over induction of nearly 400 new members
A What happened
The Bombay High Court stayed the Maharashtra Cricket Association election to the apex council scheduled for January 6, 2026. The court found prima facie illegality and lack of transparency in the induction of nearly 400 new members weeks before the polls and raised concerns about the voters’ list and election schedule issued in December. The petitions were led by former India cricketer Kedar Jadhav and also filed by Latur District Association, Anant Mate, and Sir Paarashurambhau College. The stay continues until further orders, and replies are due by February 3 with a further hearing on February 4.
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Key insights

  • 1

    Court said mass inductions could affect electoral fairness and MCA functioning: The court said the numerical increase in membership significantly altered the functioning, quorum, and voting strength of the MCA, raising constitutional concerns in substance.

  • 2

    Court said intervention was warranted despite the election process having begun: The court rejected the contention that no court interference was permissible once the election process had begun and said allowing the elections to proceed would perpetuate the alleged illegality.

Takeaways

The MCA election remains stayed until further orders, with the case set for further hearing on February 4, 2026.

Topics

World & Politics Elections Governance Law & Public Safety Courts

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