How the four-member ward system will change civic elections in Maharashtra

In the upcoming civic polls in Maharashtra, all municipal corporations except Mumbai will have a four-member ward system, according to a recent notification issued by the state Urban Development Department. ALOK DESHPANDE explains the significance of this system and why it is being adopted in Maharashtra.

- GNS News Agency, June 20

What is the four-member ward system?

There will be a four-member ward system in 28 out of 29 municipal corporations in Maharashtra. On Tuesday, the Maharashtra Urban Development Department issued notifications detailing the procedure for finalising ward boundaries across the state. There will be no change in the total number of wards, but every four wards will be bunched together.

While a candidate can file their application from a ward, they can campaign across four wards in their bunch of wards. If elected, the representative can carry out developmental works in all four wards. A voter can elect the representative, not only of their respective wards but also of three other wards. However, if a voter does not wish to vote for candidates in the other wards, the presiding officer will have to inform polling agents to ensure documentary proof and avoid confusion at the time of counting.

When did the state government opt for the four-member ward system?