BMC chief admits mistake in deploying court staff for poll duty; gets High Court rap

Key Points

1. On **January 5, 2026**, BMC Commissioner **Bhushan Gagrani** withdrew directives asking subordinate court staff to report for election duty.
2. The Bombay High Court reprimanded **Bhushan Gagrani** for overstepping his jurisdiction as District Election Officer.
3. The controversy began in **late December 2025** when the Commissioner issued letters to subordinate court staff for election duty.
4. The Chief Metropolitan Magistrate and Registrar (Inspection) had already informed the Commissioner of the High Court's decision to exempt court staff.
5. On **December 29, 2025**, the Commissioner declined the request to exempt subordinate court staff, prompting the High Court's suo motu action.
6. The High Court held a special hearing on **December 30** and stayed the Commissioner's letters.
7. On **December 22, 2025**, the Commissioner initially issued the directive to subordinate court staff.
8. In **September 2008**, the High Court's Administrative Judges' Committee decided to exempt court staff from election duty.