Special Voter List Revision Launched for Baramati Assembly Bypoll
The Election Commission has announced a Special Summary Revision (SSR) of the electoral roll for the Baramati Assembly constituency in Maharashtra, marking the start of the bypoll process. This initiative follows the vacancy created by the tragic death of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in an air crash on January 28, 2026.
Key Dates and Process for Electoral Roll Update
The SSR programme will commence on February 9, 2026, with a qualifying date set as January 1, 2026. This revision aims to ensure the voter list is updated, accurate, and transparent, in compliance with section 21 of the Representation of the People Act 1950. The schedule includes:
- Publication of the consolidated draft electoral roll on February 9.
- Acceptance of claims and objections from voters from February 9 to February 25.
- Scrutiny and resolution of claims and objections by March 6.
- Publication of the final electoral roll on March 10.
Political Context and Potential Candidates
Following Ajit Pawar's demise, his wife Sunetra Pawar was sworn in as the new Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. Currently serving as a Rajya Sabha MP, she is widely expected to contest the upcoming Assembly bypoll, though she has not yet resigned from her parliamentary position. This move could significantly impact the political landscape in the region.
Coordination and Implementation Efforts
To facilitate the revision process, meetings will be organized with recognized political parties at various administrative levels. An official from the Maharashtra Chief Electoral Officer's office stated, "Meetings will be held with the Pune district collector, district election officer, and Baramati electoral registration officer to ensure effective implementation and local coordination." These sessions will involve sharing detailed programme information and exchanging necessary instructions and feedback.
Parallel Revision for Rahuri Assembly Seat
In a related development, a similar electoral roll revision has been completed for the Rahuri Assembly seat in Ahilyanagar district, which became vacant after the death of BJP MLA Shivajirao Kardile. The final electoral roll for Rahuri is scheduled for publication on February 14, 2026, highlighting the Election Commission's ongoing efforts to maintain electoral integrity across multiple constituencies.
