Voters across Nagpur faced a day of confusion and frustration as errors in the electoral rolls disrupted the voting process at numerous polling stations. Many citizens struggled to locate their names or confirm the correct booths, leading to significant delays and long queues.
Missing Names and Spelling Mistakes Cause Chaos
At several polling centers, voters who had participated in previous elections were shocked to find their names completely absent from the printed rolls. Others discovered that their entries featured altered spellings, which made it difficult for polling staff to verify their identities accurately. In multiple instances, voters received instructions to check alternative serial numbers or move between different booths within the same premises to trace their entries.
Voters Share Their Frustrating Experiences
Rizwan Javed, a resident of Central Nagpur, expressed his astonishment when he could not find his name on the roll at his regular booth. He stated, "I have been voting from this address for more than twenty years, but my name is missing from the list this time. I waited for over thirty minutes just to get guidance from the officials, and still, nothing happened."
Similarly, Sarfaraz, a 35-year-old from Zingabai Takli, faced a different issue. His name appeared as "Sarapharaj" on the online electoral roll, forcing him to repeatedly verify his EPIC number before casting his vote. He said, "The spelling error created a lot of confusion, and I was genuinely worried that I might not be able to vote at all."
Crowding and Verification Struggles at Assistance Desks
Voters reported heavy crowding at assistance desks throughout the city. Many individuals were seen cross-checking their details on mobile phones, comparing them against both printed rolls and online databases. Officials advised electors to remain patient while they verified names and EPIC numbers, but some voters described the process as time-consuming and stressful.
Officials Respond and Offer Assurances
Despite the challenges, polling continued as scheduled across Nagpur. Officials urged voters to double-check their entries online ahead of time to avoid similar issues in the future. They also assured the public that all eligible voters would be allowed to cast their ballots after proper verification, emphasizing their commitment to a smooth electoral process.
