Mumbai’s civic voters are gearing up for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections on January 15, 2026, after a nearly three-year delay, with polls also set for 28 other municipal corporations across Maharashtra. This comprehensive guide outlines the complete schedule, voter eligibility, and essential steps to participate in what promises to be a high-stakes battle for control of Asia’s richest civic body.
Election Schedule and Key Dates
The Maharashtra State Election Commission (SEC) announced the poll program on December 15, 2025, triggering the model code of conduct immediately. Voting will occur across 29 corporations, including BMC, Thane, Navi Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Mira Bhayandar, Vasai Virar, Panvel, and Kalyan Dombivli, on January 15, 2026 (Thursday) from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm. Counting follows on January 16 (Friday), with results expected the same day.
Nominations open on December 23, 2025, and close on December 30. Scrutiny happens on December 31, with withdrawals allowed until January 2, 2026. The final candidate list and symbols will be released on January 3. Campaigning ends 48 hours before polling, banning all political ads after 5:30 pm on January 14.
A total of 2,869 seats are up for grabs, including BMC’s 227 wards. The Supreme Court mandated completion of these elections by January 31, 2026, resolving delays from seat reservation disputes and voter list issues.
Voter Guide: How to Check Eligibility and Prepare
Maharashtra’s civic polls will see an estimated 3.48 crore voters, with Mumbai alone hosting 10,111 polling stations. To vote, you must be an Indian citizen, 18 or older by January 15, 2026, and a resident of the relevant ward. Over 11 lakh duplicate names were flagged earlier by parties like MNS and Shiv Sena (UBT), but SEC extended voter list deadlines in November for corrections.
Check your name on the electoral roll via the official Voter Portal. Search by EPIC number, mobile, or form details. If missing, apply for inclusion online or at local offices before deadlines. First-time voters or those shifting addresses should update details promptly. Carry your Voter ID (EPIC) to the polling station; alternatives like Aadhaar, PAN, or passport work with proof of identity.
For assistance, dial the voter helpline 1950 toll-free. Visit the Maharashtra State Election Commission or CEO Maharashtra websites for ward maps, polling booth locations, and forms. Authorities urge high turnout, building on 2017 BMC polls where Shiv Sena won 84 seats.
Political Stakes and What to Expect
These elections, delayed since BMC’s last polls in 2017, are a litmus test amid Maharashtra’s fractured politics. The Shiv Sena split in 2022 saw many corporators shift to Eknath Shinde’s faction, reshaping alliances. MahaYuti (BJP, Shinde Sena, Ajit Pawar NCP) has declared unity for BMC, while Maha Vikas Aghadi (Shiv Sena UBT, NCP Sharad Pawar, Congress) deliberates, wary of including Raj Thackeray’s MNS over vote bank concerns.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis hailed the announcement, predicting votes for development. Expect fierce campaigns: Shiv Sena factions and MNS pushing Marathi manoos issues, BJP countering with Hindutva. Control of BMC’s vast budget influences infrastructure, water supply, and roads in Greater Mumbai.
Voters should watch for symbol allotments on January 3. Polling stations will have ramps, shade, and facilities for disabled and senior citizens. Report violations to SEC helplines. With 3.48 crore participating statewide, your vote shapes Mumbai’s future.
Tips for a Smooth Voting Experience
- Verify details early on Voter Portal.
- Plan your route; booths open 7:30 am.
- Avoid queues by voting early.
- No phones or campaigning inside booths.
- Helpline 1950 for queries.
As Mumbai braces for this urban showdown, empowered voters can drive accountable governance. Stay informed via official sources.
