Maharashtra Records Highest Voter Turnout Since 1995, Thanks To Celebrity Appeals And Election Commission's Efforts

Maharashtra, which voted on 20 November to choose its 288-member legislative assembly in a single-phase election, recorded a voter turnout of 65.11 per cent—the highest since the 1995 assembly polls, which saw a 71.7 per cent turnout.

This turnout surpasses the 61.39 per cent recorded during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and is also higher than the 61.4 per cent seen in the 2019 state assembly polls, Hindustan Times reported.

The higher turnout is attributed to numerous appeals from prominent figures, including celebrities, politicians, and activists as well as elaborate arrangements at polling stations by the Election Commission of India (ECI).

According to the ECI, Kolhapur district, which includes 10 assembly constituencies, recorded the highest voter turnout at 76.25 per cent. Gadchiroli followed with 73.68 per cent, and Jalna reported 72.30 per cent.

In contrast, the Mumbai City district, comprising 10 assembly segments, registered the lowest turnout at 52.07 per cent. Thane and Mumbai Suburban districts, reported turnouts of 56.05 per cent and 55.77 per cent.

To address urban voter apathy, special efforts were made, including setting up over 1,185 polling stations in high-rise buildings and residential areas. The ECI ensured amenities like benches, volunteers, and wheelchairs at polling stations to enhance voter convenience.

Maharashtra, with an urban population exceeding 5.1 crore (over 45 per cent of its total population), has struggled with low voter turnout in the past, averaging 60-61 per cent. This election, however, marked a significant improvement, breaking previous trends.