Maharashtra Elections 2024: The Election Commission expressed disappointment on Wednesday over the continued low voter turnout in urban areas of Maharashtra, including major cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Thane, despite efforts to improve voter participation. These efforts included various initiatives to facilitate voting and motivate citizens, but urban voters, especially in these cities, have maintained a “dismal record” of low participation.
The assembly elections in Maharashtra and Jharkhand concluded on Wednesday, with Maharashtra recording a voter turnout of 58.22% by 5 PM, while Jharkhand saw a turnout of 67.59%, exceeding the 2019 turnout for the same constituencies. The Election Commission stated that Maharashtra’s turnout could still surpass the 2019 figures, as voting was ongoing in the state at the time.
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While Maharashtra held its assembly election in a single phase, Jharkhand conducted the election in two phases. The Commission focused on combating urban apathy, a persistent issue in past elections where urban areas have seen low turnout, particularly among younger voters. In response, more than 1,185 polling stations were established in high-rise buildings and societies.
Additionally, awareness campaigns involving film celebrities and national icons were organized to encourage greater participation from urban and young voters. Urban apathy refers to the tendency of voters, especially in cities, to stay home on election day instead of heading to polling stations.
(With PTI Inputs)
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