Maharashtra sees 18.14% turnout by 11 a.m.
In the ongoing state elections, as per data from the Election Commission. The polling day began with enthusiasm among voters, who were seen queuing at polling booths despite reports of sporadic delays. Mumbai suburbs and rural regions reported higher turnout compared to urban centers, which typically experience slower voting during the early hours. Political leaders from across parties urged citizens to exercise their democratic right, emphasizing the importance of each vote in shaping the state’s future. The voting percentage is expected to increase as the day progresses and more people participate.
Maharashtra Assembly Elections: 18.14% Voter Turnout Recorded Till 11 AM
Voters turned up at polling stations early in the day to cast their votes, with participation varying across districts and constituencies.
In Mumbai city district, the overall voter turnout stood at 15.78% by 11 a.m., reflecting a slower pace compared to other regions in the state. The Colaba constituency recorded a polling percentage of 13.03%, Mahim witnessed 19.66% turnout, and Worli registered 14.59%. In the suburban areas of Mumbai, voter enthusiasm appeared higher, with Bhandup reporting a turnout of 23.42%, one of the highest in the region.
Key Constituencies Witness Varying Turnout
Several high-profile constituencies across Maharashtra recorded mixed voter turnout figures.
In Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s constituency of Kopri-Pachpakhadi in Thane, the voter turnout was reported at 18.22% by 11 a.m. The constituency, which holds significant political importance, witnessed steady voter participation.
Nagpur South-West, a constituency where Deputy Chief Minister and senior BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis is contesting, saw a turnout of 19.91%. The Nagpur region traditionally records higher voter engagement, and this constituency is no exception as voters turned out early to support their preferred candidates.
In Baramati, Pune district, the voter turnout was recorded at 18.81% by 11 a.m. This constituency is a key battleground between Deputy Chief Minister and NCP chief Ajit Pawar and his nephew Yugendra Pawar. The family rivalry has added intrigue to the contest, drawing significant attention from both voters and political observers.
Urban Versus Rural Voting Trends
Urban constituencies like those in Mumbai city and its suburbs showed varied participation levels. While areas like Colaba and Worli reported relatively low turnouts by mid-morning, suburban areas such as Bhandup demonstrated a stronger voter presence. Urban voters often take longer to reach polling stations, with a noticeable increase expected in the afternoon and evening hours.
In contrast, rural areas across Maharashtra typically experience higher voter turnout during the early hours of polling. Local issues such as agricultural concerns, water supply, and infrastructure development play a significant role in mobilizing voters in these regions.
Political Leaders Urge Citizens to Vote
As polling progressed, political leaders from across party lines appealed to citizens to exercise their democratic right. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde urged voters to come out in large numbers, emphasizing the importance of their participation in shaping Maharashtra’s future. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and NCP chief Ajit Pawar also highlighted the critical role of voters in determining the state’s governance for the next five years.
Election Commission’s Preparations
The Election Commission deployed extensive measures to ensure smooth and fair polling across the state. Security arrangements were strengthened, particularly in sensitive areas, to maintain law and order during the voting process. EVMs and VVPATs were checked and verified to ensure their functionality, and polling officials were stationed at all booths to facilitate the voting process.
With voting underway, turnout figures are expected to rise steadily as the day progresses. Traditionally, urban voters tend to cast their votes later in the day, and a significant surge is anticipated during the afternoon and evening hours. The Election Commission and political analysts are closely monitoring the trends, especially in constituencies where close contests are predicted.
The Maharashtra assembly elections hold significant political weight, with all major parties—BJP, Shiv Sena, Congress, NCP, and regional players—vying for dominance. As the turnout figures unfold, they will provide insights into the political landscape and voter sentiment across the state.
Conclusion
The 18.14% voter turnout recorded by 11 a.m. With polling underway in all constituencies, the election is expected to shape the political direction of the state. Voter engagement across key constituencies and the eventual turnout percentage will be critical in determining the outcomes of this high-stakes electoral battle.