Court Directs Electoral Officer Not to Proceed Without Court's Leave or Until Next Hearing
In a significant development, the Bombay High Court has intervened in the election process of the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA), originally scheduled for January 6, 2026. The decision comes after a series of writ petitions were filed challenging the proceedings. The court's order, delivered on January 5, 2026, mandates that the Electoral Officer must refrain from proceeding with the elections without the court's permission or until the next scheduled hearing.
The bench, comprising Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar and Justice Gautam A. Ankhad, issued this directive following extensive hearings. Senior advocates representing the petitioners, including Mr. Vineet Naik and Mr. Venkatesh Dhond, argued that the electoral process required judicial scrutiny. Representing the respondents, which include the MCA and its Electoral Officer, were notable senior advocates like Dr. Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Mr. Huzefa Ahmadi.
The court's decision was influenced by submissions highlighting potential issues in the induction of new members and objections that were reportedly dismissed by an order dated December 29, 2025. The court's directive effectively halts the electoral process, which had been publicly announced on December 23, 2025, pending further court approval.
The court instructed the respondents to file their replies by February 3, 2026, with further proceedings scheduled for February 4, 2026. This stay order underscores the judiciary's role in ensuring fair electoral processes within sports associations, reflecting broader concerns about governance and transparency.
Bottom Line:
Election process of Maharashtra Cricket Association scheduled on 6th January 2026, published on 23rd December 2025, stayed by the Court, directing the Electoral Officer not to proceed without leave of the Court or till the next date of hearing.
Statutory provision(s): Maharashtra Cricket Association - Election Process.
