As the public campaigning for 29 municipal corporations, including Mumbai, concluded, candidates in Maharashtra can now conduct door-to-door campaigning until January 14, with polling scheduled for January 15. While public rallies and loudspeaker use are banned, candidates can engage in personal outreach with fewer than five people. State Election Commissioner Dinesh Waghmare clarified that this allowance is not new but follows a standing order from 2012.
The decision sparked questions during a press conference, with concerns raised about potential bias towards specific candidates. Waghmare refuted these claims, citing the application of similar rules during past elections. He emphasized that while public campaigning must cease 48 hours before polling, personal interactions like home visits are permissible as long as no loudspeakers or large groups are involved.
Waghmare reiterated the restriction on door-to-door campaigning groups to a maximum of five individuals, including the candidate. Microphones and sound systems are strictly prohibited to maintain fairness. Any form of cash or gift distribution is considered a criminal offense and is under close scrutiny to prevent malpractice. Critics warn that this allowance may lead to increased disputes between rival factions, as monitoring individual visits is more challenging than overseeing public events.
Responding to allegations of hindering Opposition candidates in Colaba, Waghmare stated that a preliminary investigation found no wrongdoing by election officials. He also addressed a video showing alleged cash distribution in Ward-29 of the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation, seeking a detailed report on the incident. In constituencies where candidates have won uncontested, certification of results is pending to ensure fairness, transparency, and the absence of coercion or inducements.
