The district election branch of Pune has taken a significant step in preparing for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections by unveiling the draft voter list on Friday, October 27. This crucial announcement covers 21 assembly constituencies, including eight in the city, three in Pimpri-Chinchwad, and ten in rural areas, revealing a total of 80,73,183 voters. This marks an increase of 1,21,763 voters compared to the final list declared on January 5 earlier this year. Citizens now have the opportunity to file claims and objections on this draft list until December 9.
In compliance with the Election Commission’s directive, individuals who will turn 18 on or before January 1, 2024, are being registered as voters. The final voter list for the city and district is scheduled for release on January 5, 2024, following the resolution of claims and objections. Only those whose names appear on this final list will be eligible to vote in the Lok Sabha elections.
One notable highlight of this year’s draft voter list is the significant increase in the number of young voters. Last year, the number of voters in the 18 to 19 age group was 79,362, constituting 0.67 percent of the total population. This year, the number in this age group has surged to 3,71,003, accounting for 3.13 percent of the total population. The age group of 20-29 has also witnessed a remarkable increase in voters, growing from 13,63,624 to 28,27,376, with the percentage rising from 11.51 to 23.86 percent. Deputy Election Officer Meenal Kalskar attributes this surge to an increased percentage of youth voters, signifying their active participation in the democratic process.
The draft voter list is readily available for public viewing at the offices of all Electoral Registration Officers. Upazila Election Returning Officer Meenal Kalaskar encourages citizens to verify their voter status on the official websites, http://www.nvsp.in and ceo.maharashtra.gov.in.
Review of Electoral Roll:
- Number of voters in 21 assembly constituencies: 79,51,420
- Number of voters in the draft list: 80,73,183
- Number of male voters: 42,25,918 (An increase of 59,653 compared to last year)
- Number of female voters: 38,46,741
- Number of transgender voters increased from 495 to 524.
