Key Points:
- Polling scheduled for January 15, 2026, across 29 municipal corporations including BMC
- Results to be declared on January 16, 2026
- Model Code of Conduct immediately enforced across Maharashtra
- Approximately 11 lakh duplicate entries found and removed from Mumbai voter list
- Special ‘Voter Rights’ mobile app launched for citizen verification
The Maharashtra State Election Commission has announced the complete schedule for municipal corporation elections across 29 cities, with voting scheduled for January 15, 2026, and results to be announced on January 16. The filing of nominations will take place from December 23 to December 30, followed by scrutiny on December 31. The last date for withdrawal of candidature is January 2, 2026, with election symbols allotted and final candidate lists published on January 3. Voting will take place from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM using Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).
Mumbai Voter List Cleanup
Maharashtra State Election Commissioner Dinesh Waghmare revealed that during verification, approximately 11 lakh duplicate entries were found in Mumbai’s voter list. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has developed special software to identify and remove these duplicate records, ensuring cleaner electoral rolls. This massive cleanup operation aims to prevent electoral fraud and ensure fair elections in India’s largest municipal corporation.
Digital Initiatives for Voter Verification
To help citizens verify their information, the Election Commission has launched a mobile application called ‘Voter Rights’. Voters are advised to check their names on the SEC website and use the app to easily find their registration details before the elections. This digital initiative represents a significant step toward transparency and voter empowerment in the electoral process.
Security and Administrative Preparations
The administration has begun finalising security arrangements, including police force deployment and polling station monitoring. All municipal corporations have been instructed to conduct fair and peaceful elections, with special emphasis on maintaining law and order during the high-stakes BMC polls. The results of these elections will play a crucial role in shaping urban politics across Maharashtra.
Political Significance
The BMC elections are considered a semi-final for state politics, intensifying political activity among parties and prospective candidates. With the Model Code of Conduct now in effect, parties have accelerated their preparations and campaign strategies. The outcome will significantly influence the political landscape of urban Maharashtra and set the tone for future state-level electoral battles.
