The Election Office of the Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) is undertaking massive preparations to manage an unprecedented number of candidates in the upcoming civic polls. With a staggering 735 candidates contesting for 122 seats across the city's 31 wards, officials have made extensive arrangements for Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) to ensure a smooth process.
Large-Scale EVM Deployment for High Contestation
To accommodate the large pool of contestants, the election machinery has arranged a total of 4,600 ballot units and 2,300 control units. This deployment includes reserve units that can be utilised if required. Due to the exceptionally high number of nominations, the configuration of ballot units varies per ward. Two wards—Ward 14 and Ward 21—will each require four ballot units. Furthermore, 16 wards will need three units each, while the remaining wards will be managed with two ballot units.
Colour-Coded Ballots and Four-Member Ward System
The polls will largely follow a four-member ward system, categorised as A, B, C, and D. The exceptions are wards 15 and 19, which will have three members each. Consequently, every voter will cast four votes, except in the two aforementioned wards where they will cast three.
To simplify the voting process and prevent confusion, the ballot papers inside the EVMs will feature four distinct background colours corresponding to each member category:
- Group A candidates will have a white ballot.
- Group B will be on a pink ballot.
- Group C will be associated with light yellow.
- Group D will be on a light blue ballot.
This colour differentiation is designed to help voters clearly identify and cast their votes across all four groups without error.
Ensuring Transparent and Smooth Elections
NMC election officials have emphasised that these meticulous measures aim to guarantee a transparent and efficient voting experience. The high number of contestants is expected to lead to intense competition, making robust logistical planning crucial. The deployment of thousands of EVM units and the innovative colour-coding system are central strategies to maintain clarity and order during the civic polls, which are a critical democratic exercise for the city.
