Mumbai: With polling for the BMC elections scheduled on Jan 15, the civic administration has issued a stern warning to officials and staff who have remained absent from mandatory election training sessions, saying strict action will be taken under election laws for non-compliance. The warning comes as the second phase of training for Presiding Officers (PROs) and Assistant Presiding Officers (APROs)—appointed to manage polling booths—is currently underway across the city. The BMC has termed the training crucial and compulsory for all personnel deployed on election duty.Additional municipal commissioner (city) Dr Ashwini Joshi said that despite clear instructions, instances of absenteeism have been reported. She has directed officials and employees who missed the sessions to immediately contact their respective Returning Officers (ROs), complete the required training and ensure participation in the election process. Any official found absent from duty or negligent in discharging election responsibilities will face disciplinary action, she warned.
As per the schedule announced by the State Election Commission, Maharashtra, polling will be held from 7.30 am to 5.30 pm on Thursday, Jan 15, while counting of votes will take place on Friday, Jan 16, under the supervision of 23 Returning Officers.The scale of the civic election is significant, with over 1.03 crore voters eligible to cast their ballots across Mumbai. The BMC will set up 10,231 polling stations citywide and has deployed 64,375 officers and staff to manage the process.Election personnel are being trained in two phases, with the first phase already completed successfully. The second phase, now in progress, is aimed at familiarising polling staff with procedures and protocols to ensure a smooth and error-free voting process.
