First-time voters, this is your moment! Know your booth, carry your ID, and vote responsibly. Your participation decides Mumbai’s local services and leadership; every single vote truly counts
By voting, you’re taking part in a vital process that directly impacts the everyday life of the city. Representational Pic
Voting for the first time can feel both exciting and a little overwhelming, but it’s also one of the most powerful ways to make your voice heard in shaping the city you live in. In the context of the BMC Election 2026, your single vote contributes directly to decisions about Mumbai’s roads, water, transport, sanitation, and other essential local services. That makes showing up at your polling booth more than a civic duty; it’s a chance to have a say in the future of your city.
Before you head out, make sure your voter ID is ready and double-check the location of your polling booth. Knowing exactly where to go and having your ID on hand can save you a lot of stress on polling day. Planning the timing of your visit is also wise; arriving early or during off-peak hours can help you avoid long queues and ensure a smoother experience.
Once you arrive, the process is straightforward. Polling officials will first verify your name on the voter list and check your ID, then apply indelible ink to your finger to mark that you’ve voted.
You’ll be given a slip to sign in the voter register before you step up to the electronic voting machine (EVM). Press the button next to the symbol of your chosen candidate and briefly check the VVPAT slip that confirms your vote. If you don’t wish to vote for any candidate, the NOTA (None of the Above) option is there for you.
Parties and their symbols
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) – 🪷 Lotus
Indian National Congress (INC) – ✋ Hand
Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction) – 🏹 Bow and Arrow
Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction) – 🔥 Flaming Torch (Mashal)
Nationalist Congress Party (Ajit Pawar faction) – ⏰ Clock
Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) – 🎺 Man Blowing Trumpet
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) – 🚆 Railway Engine
Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) – 🛢️ Gas Cylinder
Independent Candidates – Various symbols allotted individually
Main parties/Alliances contesting in BMC Election 2026
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) – Contesting the majority of seats as part of the ruling Mahayuti alliance in Mumbai.
Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde-led) – Allied with BJP under the Mahayuti banner, contesting a significant number of wards.
Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) – Contesting independently (though discussions with Mahayuti were ongoing).
Indian National Congress (INC) – Contesting on its own strength and not in alliance with the other major formations.
Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) – Announced readiness to contest a large number of seats (up to around 200).
Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction) – Fielding candidates and active in campaign mobilisation.
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) – Contesting as part of coordination with Uddhav Sena in some areas / independent candidates.
How many seats are needed to win the BMC Election 2026
Total seats: 227
Seats needed to win (simple majority): 114
Polling station rules
It’s important to remember the rules at polling stations: Mobile phones, cameras, and electronic devices are not allowed inside. Taking a few minutes beforehand to watch official EVM and VVPAT demonstration videos can make the voting process feel more familiar and less intimidating.
Above all, remember that your participation matters. Even one vote can influence the outcome in your ward, and collectively, these votes decide which party or alliance will lead the BMC and elect the Mayor of Mumbai.
By voting, you’re taking part in a vital process that directly impacts the everyday life of the city. So approach your first vote with confidence, stay informed, and embrace the opportunity to contribute to the governance of Mumbai.
Get all BMC Election 2026 updates here | Your ward info here
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