Archive · 25 Jul 2025
Maharashtra SEC Allows Dual Names on EVMs for Women Candidates
Imagine elections are like a game.
In this game, women in Maharashtra can choose how their names appear on the voting machines.
They can use the name they had before they got married, or the one they have after.
To do this, they need to show proof like a marriage certificate.
The election officials want to make it easier for women to be recognized by voters, whether they're known by their old or new names.
This is important because many seats in local government are reserved for women.
The SEC in Maharashtra will allow women candidates to display both pre- and post-marriage names on EVMs.
This decision applies to upcoming local and civic body elections in the state.
Candidates must file nominations under their name as it appears in the voter list.
Women can request their other name to appear on the EVM by submitting an application.
Supporting documents like marriage certificates or name change proof are required.
- Who
- The State Election Commission (SEC) and women candidates in local and civic body elections.
- What
- The State Election Commission (SEC) will allow women candidates in local body elections to display both their pre- and post-marriage names on EVMs.
- When
- The decision applies to the upcoming local and civic body elections.
- Where
- Maharashtra, India.
- Why
- To allow women candidates to maintain their identity and provide voters with clarity, given the 50% reservation for women in local bodies.
- Governing Body
- State Election Commission (SEC)
- Affected Elections
- Local and civic body elections
- Candidate Requirement
- File nomination as per voter list name, then apply.
- Supporting Documents Needed
- Marriage certificate, gazette notification, or other proofs.
- Seats Reserved for Women
- 50%