Archive · 6 Jan 2026
Maharashtra SEC Considers Repolling Amid NOTA Demands
In Maharashtra, India, there's a big discussion about elections where only one candidate is running.
Some people want to add a 'None of the Above' (NOTA) option so voters can still choose.
The state's election commission says they might hold new elections if someone complains and shows proof.
A leader from the Congress party, Harshvardhan Sapkal, is asking for this change to make sure voters' rights are respected.
Meanwhile, there's also a debate about how 69 candidates were elected without any competition, with some people saying others were forced to quit.
The ruling parties say this shows their strength, while the opposition says it's not fair.
Maharashtra SEC considers repolling in wards with unopposed candidates if complaints with evidence are filed.
Congress chief Harshvardhan Sapkal demands NOTA option in unopposed elections to uphold constitutional values.
Unopposed victories in Maharashtra's municipal elections have risen sharply to 69, up from 11 in previous elections.
Opposition parties allege candidates were forced to withdraw, while ruling parties argue it reflects their political strength.
SEC to examine cases and has asked local officials to submit reports on unopposed wins.
- Who
- Maharashtra State Election Commission (SEC), Maharashtra Congress chief Harshvardhan Sapkal, Opposition parties, Ruling alliance
- What
- Consideration of repolling in wards with unopposed candidates and demands for NOTA option
- When
- Demand made on Monday, unopposed wins declared before January 15 polling
- Where
- Maharashtra, India
- Why
- To address demands for NOTA option in unopposed elections and allegations of coercion in withdrawals
Opposition Parties
Ruling Alliance
Unopposed Elections
Opposition Parties
Opposition parties allege that candidates were forced or persuaded to withdraw, denying voters their right to vote.
Ruling Alliance
Ruling parties argue that the withdrawals reflect their political strength and deny any coercion.
- Location
- Maharashtra, India
- Issue
- NOTA option in unopposed elections and repolling considerations
- Key Figure
- Harshvardhan Sapkal (Maharashtra Congress chief)
- Organization
- Maharashtra State Election Commission (SEC)
- Demand
- Allow NOTA in unopposed elections
- Possible Action
- Repolling if complaint with evidence
- Unopposed Wins
- 69 candidates elected unopposed in current elections
- Ruling Alliance Gains
- BJP: 44, Shiv Sena: 22, NCP: 2, Islam Party: 1
Sources
EC sources indicate repolling if affected candidates file complaint with evidence
Maharashtra civic elections | From 10 to 69, unopposed wins spike this time but it was a rarity earlier
Seat watch: N ward deals with issues typical to slums amid infra projects
