The demographic shifts within Pune’s electoral geography have emerged as a focal point ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, marked by a notable decline in the central electorate while witnessing a surge in suburban and rural areas.
Over the past five years, Pune’s Lok Sabha constituency has experienced a decrease of approximately 72,000 voters, contrasting with an upswing in neighboring constituencies such as Baramati, Shirur, and Maval. This shift signifies a noteworthy pattern of residents migrating from central urban zones to the suburban peripheries, altering the electoral dynamics across the region.
In 2019, Pune’s electorate stood at 20.75 lakh, which has now dwindled to 20.03 lakh, indicating a significant downturn. Conversely, Maval, Shirur, and Baramati constituencies have observed substantial increments in their voter base. Maval has witnessed a rise of approximately 2.11 lakh voters, Shirur an increase of over 3 lakh, and Baramati around 1 lakh, compared to the figures recorded in 2019.
This surge in voter numbers within the neighboring constituencies primarily stems from the burgeoning population in the suburban areas of Pune city falling under these parliamentary segments. In 2019, Maval, Baramati, and Shirur had 22.98 lakh, 22.14 lakh, and 21.75 lakh registered voters, respectively. Fast forward to 2024, these figures have escalated significantly, with Maval’s electorate soaring to 25.09 lakh, Baramati to 23.15 lakh, and Shirur to 24.79 lakh.
Despite the decline in Pune’s central electorate, the overall electoral data for Pune district depicts a rise of 3,97,802 voters, marking a 5.15% increase compared to 2019. Notably, the demographic profile includes 83,050 youths aged between 18-19 years, 1,342,000 voters aged 20-29 years, 5517 centenarians, and 85000 persons with disabilities, showcasing the diverse voter composition within the region.
As the Election Commission of India unveiled the poll schedule, slated for May 13 in Pune, and for neighboring constituencies Maval and Shirur, the district administration has intensified its preparations to ensure smooth, transparent, and peaceful elections. The Model Code of Conduct has come into effect, heralding a phase of heightened vigilance and adherence to electoral norms.
Under the stewardship of district collector Suhas Diwase, the administration has initiated various voter awareness programs and training sessions for election personnel to uphold the sanctity of the electoral process. With polling stations equipped with CCTV surveillance units and stringent measures in place to address potential disruptions, efforts are underway to facilitate a fair and inclusive electoral exercise.
As the electoral machinery gears up for the impending polls, stakeholders emphasize the importance of conducting elections devoid of malpractices and illegalities. Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar underscores the commitment to curb unlawful activities such as drug trafficking, bribery, misinformation campaigns, and other infractions aimed at subverting the electoral integrity.
