Mumbai, Jan 15 (NationPress) With the commencement of voting for the Maharashtra local body elections on Thursday, leaders from various political factions have called upon the public to engage in this essential democratic exercise. They emphasized that every eligible voter possesses an equal measure of opportunity and responsibility to cast their vote.

Senior BJP figure Prakash Javadekar encouraged citizens to utilize their voting rights, mentioning he opted to cast his vote early in the day.

“Every citizen has the chance to vote, and it is imperative they take advantage of it. I chose to vote as part of my morning routine, ensuring I could participate first. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the double-engine government here have significantly influenced the populace. I voted for development, for the nation, and for the city's progress,” Javadekar shared with IANS.

BJP Mumbai President Ameet Satam expressed confidence in the BJP–Shiv Sena alliance’s chances in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections.

“The residents of Mumbai will elect their own Mayor in the municipal corporation. Mumbaikars will strongly support the BJP–Shiv Sena alliance candidates, and the saffron flag of Hindutva will soar over Mumbai’s municipal corporation. We have prayed at Siddhi Vinayak Maharaj's feet for the strength and blessings to create a developed and secure Mumbai. May this day be marked as a historic occasion in Mumbai’s narrative,” he stated.

BJP leader and former Maharashtra Governor Ram Naik noted that voting early has always been his practice.

“As a party leader, early voting allows me to assess the polling station arrangements and engage with officials. This helps me monitor the election process and identify any potential issues. I urge everyone to participate in voting,” he remarked.

Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC similarly encouraged widespread civic participation.

“After seeking blessings from Maa Mumba and Ganpati Bappa, we are heading to vote. I urge every Mumbaikar to exercise their voting rights. When you vote, you gain the right to question and hold authorities accountable. Voting is vital because local bodies will determine Mumbai’s future development, encompassing healthcare, education, urban planning, and overall governance,” she stated.

Maharashtra Minister Ashish Shelar underscored the importance of the BMC elections, remarking, “This is the most significant election for Mumbai. With a budget exceeding Rs 40,000 crore, the municipal corporation plays a crucial role in the city’s development and public services.”

Meanwhile, BJP leader Kirit Somaiya reported that the voting process in Mumbai was proceeding smoothly and commended BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani for the effective arrangements.

However, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant raised alarms about alleged irregularities, asserting claims of inducements and vote-buying.

“Having observed elections in Mumbai and Maharashtra since 1968, I have never encountered a situation like this. What is transpiring now is profoundly concerning. In the past, there might have been minor disputes, but the current scenario of distributing money or goods is blatant inducement. Vote-buying has commenced, and I find it incomprehensible,” he stated.