Maharashtra Elections 2024 witnessed a remarkable voter turnout of 65.02%, marking the highest participation since 1995. A collective effort from celebrities, politicians, and activists was instrumental in encouraging citizens to exercise their voting rights.
Maharashtra recently conducted its assembly elections on November 20, with an impressive voter turnout of 65.02%.
This figure not only surpasses the turnout of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, which stood at 61.39%, but also exceeds the 61.4% recorded during the previous assembly elections in 2019. The turnout is the highest observed since the 1995 assembly polls, which had a historical turnout of 71.7%. The engaged participation reflected a significant effort from various sectors of society
. Notable figures, including celebrities, politicians, and activists, actively campaigned to encourage citizens to step out and cast their votes. The Election Commission of India made substantial arrangements across polling stations, enhancing voter convenience and accessibility. Among the districts, Kolhapur led the way with an outstanding turnout of 76.25%. This was closely followed by Gadchiroli, which recorded 73.68%, and Jalna at 72.30%. Conversely, the Mumbai City district had the lowest turnout rate, standing at 52.07%. Nearby districts, such as Thane and Mumbai Suburban, reported voter turnouts of 56.05% and 55.77%, respectively.
To combat urban apathy, the Election Commission focused on mobilizing urban voters, especially young residents, given Maharashtra's unique demographic landscape. With a vast urban population exceeding 5.1 crore, making up over 45% of the total state populace, the challenge to engage urban voters has persisted in past elections. Despite national averages exceeding 66% in recent parliamentary polls, Maharashtra has struggled to achieve similar figures. In preparation for this year's elections, the Election Commission set up over 1,185 polling stations within high-rise buildings and residential complexes.
In adherence to the Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar's directives, various facilities were made available at these polling locations, including waiting benches and wheelchairs, to ensure comfort for all voters. Awareness campaigns, featuring film stars and regional icons, aimed to uplift voter engagement, particularly targeting urban youth. These initiatives were crucial in redefining the electoral landscape in Maharashtra, encouraging citizens to reclaim their democratic rights.
The success in voter turnout this election represents a positive shift in political participation and reflects the collective efforts of various stakeholders working towards a more engaged electorate. As the dust settles on the elections, analysts will closely examine the implications of this increased turnout, particularly in light of the predictions made by pollsters regarding the political landscape in Maharashtra and its potential outcomes.
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