Vote counting for the 29 municipal corporations in Maharashtra, including the significant BMC, commenced at 10 a.m. on Friday. The process is underway at designated counting centers in Mumbai, Pune, Thane, and other major cities under tight security.
Early trends from postal ballots and initial rounds of EVM counting are anticipated to be available between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Due to the phased counting approach and the extensive number of candidates, final results for many wards may extend into the late evening.
The State Election Commission reported a decent turnout, often indicating a desire for change or a polarized electorate. Notable turnout percentages were seen in various regions, with Bhandup recording the highest at 64.53% and Colaba the lowest at 20.88%.
Allegations of using “indelible” marker pens instead of traditional ink at the start of counting raised controversy. Both Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and MNS president Raj Thackeray claimed these pens could be erased easily to allow for fraudulent voting. However, the SEC refuted these claims, asserting that the ink requires time to dry and has initiated an investigation into the matter.
