In a significant move to encourage voter participation, the State Election Commission (SEC) has sanctioned the establishment of 705 polling stations within housing society premises across Mumbai for the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections scheduled for January 15.
Strategic Shift to Boost Voter Convenience
This decision marks a notable reversal from the commission's earlier stance and follows a thorough review of data from the recent assembly elections. State Election Commissioner Dinesh Waghmare revealed that an analysis of society-level booths used previously indicated they boosted voter turnout by an impressive nearly 15%. These booths proved particularly convenient for women and senior citizens, addressing key logistical barriers that often keep residents from casting their votes.
The number of booths for the BMC polls, however, is lower than the around 850 set up in societies during the assembly elections. Officials stated this reduction is a strategic measure to avoid societies where candidates themselves reside, thereby mitigating potential concerns over undue influence.
Strict Norms to Uphold Electoral Integrity
Emphasizing that convenience does not mean compromise, the SEC has imposed stringent conditions for these society-based polling stations. A key rule is the cap on the number of voters, restricted to 800 per booth. This is significantly lower than the usual 1,200 to 1,800 voters assigned to regular polling stations elsewhere.
Commissioner Waghmare was unequivocal about maintaining election norms. "We will not allow voters from slums, nor supply of food at these booths. The voter cap has been restricted to 800 per booth, and the 100-metre distance rule between the main polling centre and auxiliary booths remains unchanged. There is no compromise on these rules," he asserted. He added that each such booth recorded a high turnout in the last elections, validating the model's success.
Addressing Mumbai's Chronic Voter Apathy
Mumbai has long grappled with voter apathy, especially in its upscale neighbourhoods. The city's turnout has stagnated around 45% for years, with a notable exception in 2017 when it peaked at 55%. The 2024 assembly elections provided encouraging evidence for the society-booth model. In areas like Worli, Dadar, and Bandra, booths catering to nearly 1,000 voters from the premises and adjacent buildings saw a turnout of approximately 62%, which officials hailed as a success.
"Many residents avoid voting due to distance, queues, or logistical constraints. A booth within or close to their premises could encourage them to step out," explained Waghmare. Given the highly localised nature of BMC polls, the SEC has committed to closely monitoring these society-based booths to ensure smooth and fair conduct.
The initiative to place polling stations inside large residential complexes was initially pioneered by the Election Commission of India during Lok Sabha and assembly elections. Its continuation for the crucial BMC polls underscores a sustained effort to make the democratic process more accessible and responsive to the needs of Mumbaikars.
