Maharashtra’s electoral roll has expanded significantly to 97.02 million voters from 89.83 million in 2019, when voter turnout was 61.44%. By 9 AM on polling day, the state had recorded a 6.61% voter turnout across its 288 constituencies, despite reports of technical issues at several polling stations. In Kannad, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, voters boycotted the election over unresolved local grievances.
Key Personalities Cast Votes
Prominent leaders, including Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, voted in Nagpur. Other notable figures who exercised their franchise included Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, Mumbai BJP Chief Ashish Shelar, Rajya Sabha MP Milind Deora, and Ashok Chavan. Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar, accompanied by his family, voted in Bandra and urged citizens to participate in the democratic process. Bollywood actors Akshay Kumar and Rahul Bose, as well as senior bureaucrats like former Chief Electoral Officer S Chockalingam, also cast their votes across Mumbai polling stations.
Regional Turnout Trends
The Maoist-affected Gadchiroli district saw the highest turnout at 12.33% within the first two hours, boosted by its polling stations’ early closure at 3 PM. Conversely, Osmanabad in Marathwada reported the lowest turnout at 4.85%. Mumbai city and suburban districts registered turnouts of 6.25% and 7.88%, respectively.
Leaders Urge Voter Participation
Sachin Tendulkar called on voters to ensure their participation, emphasizing the smooth arrangements at polling booths. Nitin Gadkari lauded the state government’s performance, highlighting advancements in infrastructure and irrigation, and encouraged citizens to vote for development.
With a growing electorate and active participation from leaders and citizens alike, the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections continue to see robust early engagement despite localized disruptions.
