Maharashtra has seen a significant increase in its number of registered voters, with nearly 70 lakh additional names added to the electoral rolls since the 2019 assembly elections, according to the state’s Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), S Chockalingam.
The announcement comes ahead of the state assembly elections scheduled for 20 November 2024.
“There were 8,94,46,211 voters in Maharashtra ahead of the 2019 assembly elections. After the special enrolment drives conducted by the Election Commission, the number has increased to 9,63,69,410, a rise of 69,23,199,” Chockalingam revealed in a press briefing held a day after the election schedule was announced.
This substantial increase highlights the continued engagement of the electorate in the democratic process, particularly among first-time voters.
Polling booth expansion
In light of the increased voter numbers, the number of polling booths has also been expanded.
“There were 96,654 polling booths during the 2019 assembly elections, but this time there will be 1,00,186 booths,” said Chockalingam.
This rise will ensure that polling centres are not overcrowded and that voters have better access to their respective booths on election day.
Typically, a polling booth accommodates 1,500 voters. However, where the number exceeds this limit, additional booths will be established to manage the increased load.
Special voter categories
The new electoral roll includes a considerable number of voters from various special categories. “There are 6,36,278 voters with physical disabilities, and 1,16,355 voters from the armed forces,” Chockalingam shared, noting that provisions would be made to ensure smooth and accessible voting for these groups.
Notably, the state has registered a large number of first-time voters, with 20,93,206 individuals aged between 18-19 years now eligible to vote for the first time.
The state also has an aging electorate, with 12,43,192 voters aged 85 or above. Among them, 47,716 are centenarians, a figure that underscores the active participation of older citizens in the electoral process.
Election preparations
To ensure that the elections proceed smoothly, nearly six lakh state government employees will be mobilised for election duties, Chockalingam confirmed.
He also clarified that adjustments had been made regarding the number of voters allowed inside polling booths at one time to avoid delays. “We have issued instructions that three to four voters can be present inside a booth at once. During the Lok Sabha elections, some officials allowed only one voter at a time, which resulted in significant delays.”
"Vote Jihad" controversy
The election process has not been without controversy. Recently, the use of the term "vote jihad" by Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has sparked concern, particularly in light of its communal overtones.
“The model code of conduct has come into force as of yesterday. If any leaders use such terms, we will not spare anyone. If we receive any complaints, we will check them within the legal framework and submit our report accordingly,” Chockalingam warned.
The term "vote jihad" was recently used by Fadnavis, who linked the BJP’s poor performance in the Lok Sabha elections to an alleged communal voting pattern. Speaking at a public event in Kolhapur two weeks ago, Fadnavis said, “Out of 48 Lok Sabha constituencies in Maharashtra, 14 seats witnessed vote jihad. Hindu religion never disrespected other faiths; tolerance is in our blood. I call for the need to awaken Hindutva if someone is voting for electing anti-Hindu leaders to top posts.”
His comments have been widely criticised for stoking communal tensions, and the Election Commission’s response has been one of caution, reiterating its commitment to enforcing the model code of conduct.
Electoral integrity
The Election Commission is closely monitoring the political climate, particularly rhetoric that may violate the code of conduct. Chockalingam’s remarks reinforce the Commission's resolve to maintain electoral integrity in the state.
The model code of conduct, which was implemented immediately after the election schedule was announced, sets guidelines for the behaviour of political parties and candidates, with strict penalties for violations, particularly those related to communal or hate speech.
With Maharashtra set to go to the polls in November, the focus is on ensuring that the elections are conducted smoothly and that the growing electorate, especially first-time voters, can participate in a free and fair manner.
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