The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued a strict warning to its officials and staff who have failed to attend compulsory training sessions for the upcoming civic body elections. With polling scheduled for January 15, the administration has made it clear that any negligence in election duty will invite disciplinary action under relevant laws.
Compulsory Training for Polling Staff
The warning comes during the ongoing second phase of training for Presiding Officers (PROs) and Assistant Presiding Officers (APROs). These officials are appointed to manage the city's polling booths. The BMC has emphasized that this training is both crucial and mandatory for all personnel assigned election responsibilities.
Additional Municipal Commissioner (City) Dr. Ashwini Joshi stated that despite clear directives, several instances of absenteeism have been noted. She has instructed all employees and officials who missed the sessions to immediately get in touch with their respective Returning Officers (ROs). They must complete the required training and confirm their participation in the electoral process.
Scale of the Mumbai Civic Elections
The State Election Commission, Maharashtra, has announced that voting will take place from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM on Thursday, January 15. The counting of votes is set for Friday, January 16, and will be supervised by 23 Returning Officers. The election is a massive exercise with significant numbers:
- More than 1.03 crore eligible voters in Mumbai.
- 10,231 polling stations to be established across the city.
- A total of 64,375 officers and staff deployed to manage the process.
Two-Phase Training to Ensure Smooth Polling
The election personnel training is being conducted in two distinct phases. The first phase has already been concluded successfully. The current second phase is focused on familiarizing polling staff with all necessary procedures and protocols. The goal is to ensure a voting process that is seamless and free from errors.
Dr. Joshi reiterated the administration's stance, warning that any official found absent from duty or negligent in discharging their election responsibilities will face strict consequences. The BMC is leaving no room for complacency as it prepares for one of the city's most significant democratic exercises.
