Dhule Municipal Elections 2026: Complete Voter Guide and Schedule
The Dhule Municipal Corporation elections are set for January 15, 2026, as part of the Maharashtra State Election Commission’s schedule for 29 municipal bodies across the state. This guide provides voters with essential information on the timeline, eligibility, voting process, and key preparations to ensure smooth participation in electing corporators for Dhule’s civic governance.
Election Schedule at a Glance
The Maharashtra State Election Commission announced the unified schedule for all municipal corporation polls, including Dhule. Polling will occur in a single phase on January 15, 2026, with vote counting on January 16, 2026. Key dates include:
- Nomination filing: December 23 to December 30, 2025
- Scrutiny of nominations: December 31, 2025
- Last date for withdrawal of candidature: January 2, 2026
- Campaigning ends: January 14, 2026 (24 hours before polling)
- Model Code of Conduct: In effect since the announcement
Voter lists have been revised, with final ward-wise lists published by December 15, 2025, polling station lists by December 20, and polling station-wise voter lists by December 27. A total of 2,869 corporators will be elected statewide, including those for Dhule Municipal Corporation.
Who Can Vote: Eligibility Criteria
To vote in the Dhule Municipal Elections 2026, individuals must meet these basic requirements:
- Be an Indian citizen.
- Be at least 18 years old on January 1, 2026.
- Be a resident of Dhule city and enrolled in the voter list for the relevant ward.
- Not be disqualified under any law, such as being of unsound mind or convicted of certain offenses.
Special attention is needed for voters appearing multiple times in electoral rolls. The commission has marked such entries with a double-star and requires a written declaration and affidavit specifying the intended polling station to prevent duplicate voting.
How to Check Your Voter Status and Details
Voters should verify their names in the electoral rolls promptly. Visit the Maharashtra State Election Commission website or local municipal office to:
- Search using name, EPIC number, or mobile number.
- Download the ward-wise or polling station-wise voter list.
- Confirm polling station location, published by December 20, 2025.
If your name is missing or details are incorrect, contact the Dhule Municipal Corporation’s voter helpline or booth-level officers immediately. Claims and objections were processed earlier, but updates may still be possible before final lists are locked.
Voting Day Essentials: What to Expect
On polling day, January 15, 2026, booths will typically open from 7 AM to 6 PM, though exact timings will be confirmed locally. Bring your Voter ID (EPIC card), or alternatives like Aadhaar, passport, or driving license. Aadhaar is acceptable only if linked to your voter record.
Follow these steps at the polling station:
- Queue as per gender and age priority (seniors and disabled voters first).
- Verify identity with polling staff.
- Sign the register and receive a slip.
- Vote using Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in a private booth—press the candidate symbol.
- Dip your finger in indelible ink as proof.
Polling stations will have facilities for persons with disabilities (PwD), including ramps and Braille signage on EVMs. Report any issues like bogus voting to the presiding officer or election helpline.
Key Rules and Preparations for Voters
The Model Code of Conduct restricts official activities and ensures fair campaigning. Voters must avoid inducements and report violations via the cVIGIL app or toll-free number 1800-222-990.
Prepare in advance:
- Locate your polling booth using the voter list or app.
- Avoid carrying political material or phones inside (selfies allowed only in designated areas post-voting).
- Plan for traffic or weather—polling is rain or shine.
Dhule’s municipal elections will decide the corporators responsible for urban infrastructure, water supply, roads, sanitation, and public health. Voter turnout plays a crucial role in shaping local development priorities.
Candidates and Campaigns
Nominations open soon, with scrutiny ensuring only valid candidates contest. Watch for party symbols and independents on ballots. Campaigns will focus on civic issues like waste management and urban planning. Stay informed through newspapers, TV, and official notices, but verify facts from reliable sources.
Post-Polling: Results and Next Steps
Counting begins January 16 at designated centers. Results will be declared swiftly, leading to the formation of the new Dhule Municipal Corporation. Elected corporators will elect the mayor and deputy mayor, initiating the civic body’s term.
For updates, check the Maharashtra SEC portal or Dhule Municipal Corporation office. High participation ensures robust local democracy.
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