Lok Sabha elections 2024: Election Commission doing all it can to increase voter turnout in Mumbai

A poll training session for officials and volunteers was conducted at Ruparel College, Matunga, on Sunday

The team members of Booth-level Awareness Group (BAG) have been asked to take responsibility for a set of 20 houses and encourage them to cast their vote on Monday, May 20, when the final phase of elections will be conducted in the city and suburbs. The BAG teams have been formed in the city and suburbs consisting of government employees and volunteers from various groups, teachers, staff of the postal department and people's representatives who are not affiliated to any political party.

The primary goal is to encourage ethical voting practices and facilitate a higher voter turnout during the upcoming elections. A training session was held at Ruparel College, Matunga, on Sunday.

In the training program, all polling center level officers, supervisors, field officers, officers-employees of Brihannumbai Municipal Corporation as well as residents of large buildings, presidents of societies, medical officers, health workers, Anganwadi workers and helpers of the 181-Mahim assembly constituency were present in large numbers.

"We are determined to increase the voting percentage in this year's elections and we will definitely move towards a strong and capable democracy," said Dr Subhash Dalvi, coordinating officer of Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP). "To motivate the voters at the time of polling, the BAG members should take charge of 20 houses each to motivate and encourage the voters on Monday," Dr. Dalvi added.

Officials said the BAGs are empowered to promptly report any instances of malpractice observed during the election process. They will use online apps and other suitable means to ensure transparency and fairness in the electoral proceedings.