Mon Jan 05 12:32:39 UTC 2026: Here’s a summary of the article and a rewrite as a news report:

Summary:

The BMC Commissioner of Mumbai, Bhushan Gagrani, has withdrawn directives ordering subordinate court staff to report for election duty after being reprimanded by the Bombay High Court. The High Court questioned the Commissioner’s authority to issue such orders, especially after being informed of a prior administrative decision exempting court staff from election duty. The Commissioner’s actions were deemed an overreach of his jurisdiction, violating Article 235 of the Indian Constitution. The High Court has stayed the Commissioner’s orders and advised him to find alternative personnel for election duty.

News Article:

Mumbai BMC Commissioner Retracts Election Duty Orders After High Court Rebuke

Mumbai, January 5, 2026 – Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani has withdrawn directives ordering subordinate court staff to report for election duty, following a strong reprimand from the Bombay High Court.

The High Court, led by Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar and Justice Gautam Ankhad, questioned the legal basis for Mr. Gagrani’s actions, highlighting a prior administrative decision by the High Court exempting court staff from election duty. The controversy arose after the Commissioner, acting as the District Election Officer, issued letters in late December ordering court staff to report, despite being informed of the High Court’s decision.

During a hearing on Monday, the High Court questioned the Commissioner’s authority, stating “You don’t have the powers.” Senior counsel Ravi Kadam, representing Mr. Gagrani, admitted the directives were an error and informed the court of their withdrawal.

The High Court had previously stayed the Commissioner’s orders, restraining him from requisitioning the services of High Court and subordinate court staff for election duty. The Court further advised the Commissioner to find alternative personnel for the upcoming elections, stating, “So now save yourself. You make arrangements from other sources. We will hear (from) you after the elections.”

The High Court emphasized that under Article 235 of the Constitution of India, it exercises complete control and superintendence over subordinate courts, including staff, justifying the exemption order.

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