Maharashtra sets new voting benchmark in Assembly polls, records highest turnout since 1995
PTC Web Desk: Maharashtra witnessed a historic voter turnout of 65.02% in the Assembly elections held on November 20, marking the highest participation since the 1995 elections, which recorded 71.7%. The turnout not only surpassed the 61.39% seen in the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections but also exceeded the 61.4% voter participation in the 2019 state Assembly elections.
The surge in voter engagement has been attributed to widespread campaigns by celebrities, politicians, and activists encouraging citizens to cast their votes. The Election Commission of India (ECI) played a pivotal role by implementing extensive arrangements at polling stations to enhance voter convenience.
According to data released by the ECI late Wednesday evening, Kolhapur emerged as the district with the highest voter turnout at 76.25%, followed by Gadchiroli at 73.68% and Jalna at 72.30%. These districts showcased exceptional civic participation.
In contrast, urban areas continued to lag in voter turnout. Mumbai City district, comprising 10 Assembly constituencies, recorded the lowest turnout at 52.07%. Neighbouring districts such as Thane, with 18 constituencies, and Mumbai Suburban, with 26, recorded slightly higher participation rates of 56.05% and 55.77%, respectively.
Recognising the consistent low voter engagement in urban areas during previous elections, the Election Commission prioritised urban centres this year. Special attention was given to address urban apathy by setting up over 1,185 polling stations in high-rise residential buildings and societies.
Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar emphasised ensuring voter comfort and accessibility at polling stations. Facilities such as benches for waiting voters, assistance from volunteers, and wheelchairs for the elderly and disabled were provided to ensure a seamless voting experience.
Ahead of the elections, the Election Commission rolled out extensive awareness campaigns to encourage participation, particularly among urban and younger voters. These initiatives featured state and national icons, film celebrities, and other prominent personalities.
The campaigns targeted Maharashtra’s urban population, which is the largest among all Indian states and union territories. With over 5.1 crore residents—more than 45% of the state’s population—spread across 43 cities and numerous townships, Maharashtra’s urban voter base remains critical to election outcomes.
- With inputs from agencies
