The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation election department has issued a significant directive as Mumbai prepares for the upcoming general elections. With voting scheduled for January 15, 2026, authorities are making arrangements to ensure smooth polling operations across the city.
Student Volunteers to Assist Voters
Junior colleges located in Andheri West have received official orders to provide student volunteers at polling stations. These young volunteers will be deployed across multiple neighborhoods including Juhu, Oshiwara, Lokhandwala and Versova. Their primary responsibility will involve assisting voters who need extra help during the electoral process.
Priority for NCC and Scout Students
The election department has specified that preference should be given to students who are members of the National Cadet Corps and Scout and Guide units. However, the order emphasizes that colleges should engage the maximum possible number of students to ensure adequate voter facilitation throughout polling day.
Volunteers will specifically help senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and any other voters who might require assistance. This initiative aims to make the voting experience more accessible and efficient for all citizens participating in the democratic process.
Teachers' Union Raises Objections
The Maharashtra Progressive Teachers' Union has strongly criticized this directive. Union representatives argue that involving students in election management essentially transfers the entire burden onto the education system. They believe this approach offloads responsibilities that should be handled by election authorities and trained personnel.
When questioned about whether similar arrangements might be extended to other parts of Mumbai during the elections, education department officials stated they were unaware of any such directives beyond the K-West ward. This suggests the current plan remains limited to Andheri West for now, though future expansion remains possible.
The debate continues as Mumbai prepares for its next municipal elections, with discussions about the appropriate role of educational institutions in supporting democratic processes.
