The Bombay High Court has stayed letters from the BMC commissioner, who also serves as the district election officer, directing subordinate court staff to report for civic poll duty. The court questioned the commissioner's authority and jurisdiction, citing a 2008 administrative decision exempting court staff from such duties. The High Court took suo motu cognizance of the BMC's letters and ordered the commissioner to file a personal affidavit detailing his powers. The BMC's advocate sought to withdraw the letters, but the court declined, restraining further action on the communication.