Mumbai Municipal Elections Witness Early Voter Turnout

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections kicked off with an average voter turnout of 6.98% in the first two hours. Key political figures, including Raj Thackeray and Nitin Gadkari, participated in the voting process. Sachin Tendulkar encouraged citizens to express their opinions through voting, while Akshay Kumar urged Mumbaikars to make informed choices. With significant variations in turnout across wards, the elections are crucial for the future governance of Mumbai. Stay tuned for more updates on this important civic event.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 15, 2026, 11:31 IST

Early Voting Statistics for BMC Elections

During the initial two hours of voting for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections on Thursday, an average of 6.98% of eligible voters participated, as reported by officials. Voting commenced at 7:30 AM and will continue until 5:30 PM amidst tight security across Mumbai.

Voting Trends Across Different Wards

The BMC spokesperson indicated that by 9:30 AM, the average voter turnout remained at 6.98%. Data released by the municipal body revealed significant variations in voter participation across wards. Ward number 18 in the western suburbs recorded the highest turnout at 11.57%, while ward number 162 in the eastern suburbs saw the lowest at just 1.68% by 9:30 AM.

Raj Thackeray Casts His Vote

MNS leader Raj Thackeray arrived at a polling station in Mumbai with his family to cast his vote in the BMC elections. Uddhav Thackeray is also expected to vote shortly.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari Votes in Nagpur

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari visited the New English School polling station in Nagpur to cast his vote for the Nagpur Municipal Corporation elections on January 15, 2026. Accompanied by his wife Kanchan Gadkari, he participated in the voting process as elections are underway in 29 municipalities across Maharashtra. This high-profile participation highlights the stakes in Nagpur's 151-seat contest, where the BJP aims to defend its significant victory from 2017, having won 108 seats amidst reports of EVM malfunctions in other cities. Voting will continue until 5:30 PM.

Sachin Tendulkar Shows Inked Finger After Voting

Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar displayed his inked finger after voting in the BMC elections. He emphasized the importance of this election, stating, "It is a crucial election that gives us a chance to express our opinions through our votes. Everyone should come out and vote."

Mohan Bhagwat on NOTA Voting

RSS chief Dr. Mohan Bhagwat cast his vote at the Bhauji Daftari NMC School in Nagpur. After voting, he remarked that selecting the NOTA option indirectly supports undesirable candidates.

Akshay Kumar Urges Voters to Make Informed Choices

Actor Akshay Kumar commented on the BMC elections, stating, “Today is the day for BMC elections, and as a Mumbaikar, this is when we have the remote control. Therefore, all Mumbai residents should come out and vote instead of complaining later when things go wrong. Everyone should vote to choose the right people. If you want to be a true hero of Mumbai, you need to come out and vote instead of just talking.”