Mumbai, Jan 3 (NationPress) A remarkable 15,931 candidates are vying for 2,869 seats across 893 electoral panels in the upcoming elections for 29 municipal corporations throughout Maharashtra, scheduled for January 15.

As per the State Election Commission (SEC), a total of 33,427 nominations were submitted, out of which 24,771 were validated after thorough examination, while 8,840 candidates withdrew their nominations by January 2, the cutoff date for submissions.

In the end, 15,931 candidates are set to participate in the elections.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) stands out as the largest contest, featuring 227 seats and 1,700 candidates.

Other key locations like Pune and Nashik are also witnessing intense competition.

Conversely, the least competitive contest will be held in Ichalkaranji, where 65 seats and 230 candidates will compete, while Panvel recorded the fewest withdrawals at just 88.

The data illustrates a notable trend in candidate withdrawals.

Among the 24,771 valid candidates, over 35 percent (or 8,840 individuals) opted out of the race, influenced by internal party negotiations or tactical alliances formed prior to the deadline.

With the final lists now confirmed, the 893 electoral panels across the state are entering the active campaigning phase.

The state is gearing up for a crucial election that will shape the local governance of Maharashtra's key urban centers.

According to the SEC data, across all 29 corporations, there are 2,869 seats and 15,931 final candidates, leading to an average of 5.55 candidates per seat.

Cities with a higher average of candidates per seat suggest a more fragmented political landscape or a greater number of independent challengers.

Mumbai (BMC) and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar lead the state in terms of competition intensity, with over seven candidates contending for each seat.

On the other hand, Ichalkaranji and Dhule reflect a more consolidated contest with an average of nearly 3.5 candidates per seat.

Pune emerges as a critical battleground, marked by significant strategic withdrawals.

Out of 3,061 nominations submitted, only 2,134 were valid post-scrutiny. Nevertheless, 968 candidates withdrew. Even with these withdrawals, Pune boasts a high ratio of 7.07 candidates per seat.

The SEC data indicates that "Nomination Withdrawal" plays a major role in shaping the final battlefield.

Nashik registered the highest number of withdrawals (661), followed by Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (552) and Solapur (532).

This often reflects intensive "rebel" management by significant political parties.

Interestingly, Panvel has the least "crowded" ballot in the state, with just 3.27 candidates per seat, indicating a focused contest between two main factions.