Maharashtra election body flags over 2 crore voters at risk of exclusion

Data released by Maharashtra's poll body reveals that over 20.7 million voters are at risk of being struck off the electoral register through the ASDD mechanism, which automatically removes entries of voters deemed ineligible or duplicate. The exclusions are concentrated across the state's major districts and urban centres.

Thane district accounts for the highest number of affected voters at 28.61 lakh, followed closely by Pune with 28.70 lakh and Mumbai Suburban district with 26.63 lakh. Other significant numbers emerge from Nagpur at 14.44 lakh, Nashik at 10.29 lakh, and Aurangabad with 9.52 lakh excluded voters, according to the poll body figures.

The ASDD process, which forms part of routine electoral roll maintenance, typically removes duplicate registrations, deceased voters, and those who have relocated. However, the large-scale exclusions have prompted questions about the verification procedures in place and their impact on voter participation, particularly in constituencies with significant electoral bases.

Election officials have indicated that affected voters retain the right to file claims and objections against their exclusion from the rolls. Citizens can approach their respective electoral registration officers to challenge the deletions and seek reinstatement, provided they meet the eligibility criteria for voter registration.