Will the Voter List for Local Body Elections be Based on July 2025 Registrations?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Local body elections will use the voter list from July 1, 2025.
- Preparations focus on voter accessibility and adequate polling resources.
- Polling stations will be more numerous due to the multi-member system.
- Regular evaluations of manpower and resources are essential.
- EVM inspections will begin promptly to ensure readiness.
Mumbai, July 10 (NationPress) The Maharashtra State Election Commission (SEC) has announced that the voter list for the legislative assembly, effective as of July 1, 2025, will be utilized for the upcoming local body elections. Commissioner Dinesh Waghmare emphasized that all preparations should be in accordance with this directive.
Waghmare stated, “The preparations for the forthcoming local body elections are in progress, taking into account the number of voters, polling stations, available electronic voting machines (EVMs), and the necessary manpower.”
During a video conference with district collectors, Waghmare, joined by State Election Commission Secretary Suresh Kakani and other officials, discussed the initial arrangements for elections to Zilla Parishads, Panchayat Samitis, Municipal Councils, and Nagar Panchayats.
He highlighted that if a separate voter list for local body elections is not created, the existing list from the Election Commission of India will be utilized instead.
Preliminary discussions with the Election Commission of India confirmed that the voter list will indeed be available as of July 1, 2025.
As local body elections operate under a multi-member system, Waghmare noted that the number of polling stations would exceed that of legislative elections. The State Election Commission has established specific criteria for determining polling station locations through an official order.
He stressed the importance of providing adequate facilities at polling stations for general voters, persons with disabilities, and all community members. Furthermore, a thorough assessment of available EVMs is imperative, with the State Election Commission taking all necessary steps to guarantee an adequate supply.
Kakani remarked that the initial inspection of EVMs should commence immediately to ensure their readiness for the elections. Timely measures for EVM security must also be implemented. Preparations regarding polling station locations, the condition of polling station buildings, and all related amenities should begin as soon as possible.
In addition, consistent evaluations of manpower availability or deficits should be executed, and collaboration with relevant divisional commissioners is essential to ensure timely manpower availability.