BMC elections 2026: How to check voting booth, voter list and polling booth location; All you need to know to avoid last-minute confusion

Voting in 29 municipal corporations across Maharashtra began on Thursday morning with spotlight on Mumbai. Among these, the most closely watched elections are for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), along with Thane, Nagpur, Pune, Navi Mumbai, and Pimpri Chinchwad. For the BMC elections 2026, BJP-led Mahayuti alliance is locked in an intense battle with the reunited Thackeray cousins for control of India's largest and richest civic body.

Mumbai voters will cast their ballots to elect new corporators to the BMC, India’s richest civic body. While the voting process itself remains largely familiar, voters are advised to make a few essential checks before stepping out, the most important being confirming their polling booth location.

Although voter slips are usually distributed ahead of polling day, citizens can also verify their booth details online using their EPIC (Electors Photo Identity Card) number. Here’s how you can do it easily.

Maharashtra Civic Polls: Why Knowing Your Polling Booth Location Matters

Reaching the correct polling booth saves time, avoids confusion, and ensures a smooth voting experience. On polling day, voters are allowed to cast their vote only at the booth assigned to them, making it essential to check the exact location in advance.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Search Polling Booth by EPIC Number Online

Follow these simple steps to find your polling booth details online:

Step 1: Visit the Maharashtra State Election Commission Website

Go to the official website of the Maharashtra State Election Commission (SEC).

Step 2: Access the Voter Search Page

Click on the ‘Voter Search’ option. You will be redirected to the SEC’s dedicated voter list portal:

mahasecvoterlist.in

Step 3: Choose ‘Search Name in Voter List’

On the homepage, click on ‘Search Name in Voter List’ to proceed.

Step 4: Select Search Mode

Choose EPIC Number Wise if you have your voter ID number. Alternatively, you can select Name Wise if you don’t remember your EPIC number.

Step 5: Enter Required Details

Select your local body type (Municipal Corporation, Municipality, Nagar Panchayat, Zilla Panchayat, etc.), district, and local body name.

Enter your EPIC number (or full name, if searching name-wise) and click on Search.

Once submitted, your voter record will appear on the screen, showing details such as polling booth name, full address, ward number and voter slip information.

How to Check Polling Booth Details Using Voter Helpline App

Voters can also use the Voter Helpline App to search their details. The app provides complete information including polling booth location and digital voter slip.

The app can be downloaded from the official Election Commission website: eci.gov.in/voter-helpline-app/

Maharashtra Elections: What Documents to Carry on Polling Day

After confirming your name on the electoral roll and polling booth location, make sure to carry a valid photo identity proof. Accepted documents include:

• Aadhaar Card
• PAN Card
• Passport

While the voter slip is not mandatory, carrying it can help polling officials locate your name faster and reduce waiting time.

Mumbai’s Unique Voting System Explained

Mumbai follows a single-member ward system, meaning each ward elects one corporator, and each voter casts only one vote. This is different from the three- or four-member ward system being followed by the other 28 municipal corporations in Maharashtra.

As a result, Mumbai voters will have a slightly different voting experience compared to voters in other cities across the state.

When Will the Results Be Announced?

Polling concludes on Thursday, and the counting of votes will take place on Friday (January 16). The results will determine the winning corporators in each ward and pave the way for the formation of Mumbai’s new civic administration.

With the stakes high and voter participation crucial, checking your polling booth details in advance is a small step that makes a big difference.

Inputs from agencies