Mangaluru: One year of administrator rule in MCC; civic polls uncertain, budget likely next month

Mangaluru: One year of administrator rule in MCC; civic polls uncertain, budget likely next month

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Feb 25, 2026: It has been a year since elected representatives completed their term at the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC), with February 27 marking one year under administrative rule. At present, there are no clear indications that elections will be held soon.

A few weeks ago, Urban Development Minister Bhairathi Suresh, during his visit to Mangaluru, had proposed holding local body elections in March. However, preparatory processes have not yet begun, making the possibility of elections in the immediate future unlikely. The election date has to be announced, ward reservations notified, and procedures such as filing of nominations and campaigning must follow — all of which would take a few more months.

According to current information, the Central government is expected to undertake census activities in March. Voter list revision is also scheduled during this period, making elections unlikely at the same time. The monsoon season will follow soon after, further reducing the chances of polls being announced. As of now, September or October is being considered a more probable timeframe for the elections.

The term of the last Mayor of Mangaluru, Manoj Kumar, ended on February 27, 2025. A week later, the State government appointed Mysuru Divisional Commissioner Ramesh D.S. as the new administrator. However, the decision was later revised, and the Dakshina Kannada Deputy Commissioner was appointed as the administrator, a position that continues to date.

In the absence of elected representatives, there have been public complaints that several civic issues remain unaddressed. With no corporators in place, citizens have expressed confusion about whom to approach with grievances. Over the past two months, the Deputy Commissioner has been conducting phone-in programmes, providing residents with a platform to voice their concerns.

Regarding the upcoming budget, public consultation meetings have already been held at the MCC head office and the Surathkal zonal office. Several rounds of discussions have also taken place at the official level. The State Budget is scheduled for next month, following which the MCC Budget is likely to be presented. Typically, the Chairman of the Standing Committee on Taxation, Finance and Appeals presents the budget. However, in the absence of elected representatives, the Administrator — the Deputy Commissioner — is expected to present the budget this time.