BMC Election 2026: Schools, Banks, Stock Market, Alcohol Sale; What’s Open And Closed On Polling Day?

Mumbai BMC Election 2026: Maharashtra is gearing up for its highly anticipated civic body elections on 15th January, with 29 municipal corporations, including major cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur, taking part in the democratic process. As residents head to the polls, a series of changes in regular services will take place.

The key political battle in the state will unfold between Mahayuti (a coalition comprising the BJP and Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena) and the alliance of Shiv Sena UBT and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS). The outcome of these elections is set to influence local governance in Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, and several other cities.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), which governs Mumbai, has 227 seats up for grabs. A party or coalition that secures 114 seats will claim a majority, making the BMC election a high-stakes contest in the state’s political landscape.

Here’s everything you need to know about what’s open and closed during election day.

Public Holiday Announced Across Maharashtra

In light of the elections, the Maharashtra government has declared a public holiday for citizens within the affected municipal areas. Voting will be conducted from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm. The announcement means that government offices, schools, and other public institutions will remain closed for the day. It’s advisable for residents to complete any essential tasks in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.

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Will Schools and Banks Be Closed?

As part of the election process, educational institutions, including schools and colleges, will also be closed for the day, with many of them serving as polling stations.

Additionally, banks within municipal limits will remain closed. This applies to both government and private banks. As many banks provide essential services, it’s important to consider this closure if you had planned to handle any banking matters.

Will Stock Market Remain Open?

The National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) will remain closed across both the equity and derivatives segments. Trading in securities lending and borrowing (SLBs), interest rate derivatives, and currency derivatives will also be suspended.

Initially, the exchange had announced that trading would remain open on January 15, with only a settlement holiday due to the civic polls. However, the latest notification confirms that January 15 will be a complete trading holiday.

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Will Hospitals and Essential Services Remain Open?

Essential services, such as hospitals, pharmacies, and public transport (including trains and buses), will remain operational. Local transport authorities have assured that while schedules may be adjusted for the holiday, public transport will continue to serve the public. It’s always a good idea to check local apps or updates for any changes in service timings.

Will Alcohol Be Sold?

In accordance with election rules, the sale of alcohol will be prohibited across the state on January 15. This is a "dry day" rule, which will be enforced in all election areas, including Mumbai. All liquor shops, bars, and restaurants serving alcohol will be closed for the duration of the election day. The dry day ban began on January 13 and will remain in effect until January 16.