Voters heading to polling booths for the January 2026 municipal elections will notice something very different this time. In most towns and cities across the state barring Mumbai the familiar “one vote, one button” system will no longer apply. Instead, a new voting format has been introduced that requires voters to be more attentive inside the booth.

“In this year’s municipal elections, voting will not be completed by pressing the button just once!”

The reason for this change is the introduction of the multi-member ward system in 28 municipalities. Under this model, a single ward will elect four corporators instead of one. As a result, every voter must cast four separate votes to complete the process.

To make this possible, polling booths will have multiple EVMs. Depending on the ward layout, voters may see two or four machines placed side by side. Each EVM represents a different seat and is identified by a specific colour white, pale pink, pale yellow, and pale blue so voters can distinguish them easily.

All EVM Buttons Must Be Pressed for Vote to Count

Election officials stress that voters must press one button on every EVM. Choosing candidates from different political parties is allowed, as is voting for the same party on all machines. The NOTA option is also available on each EVM. However, skipping even one machine will leave the vote incomplete.

There is also a technical cue voters should be aware of. When voting on the first, second, and third machines, only a red indicator light will turn on. No sound will be heard at this stage. The familiar beep will sound only after the final vote is cast, confirming that all four votes have been successfully recorded.

Earlier, municipal elections followed a simpler format where one councillor was elected from each ward. With the new system in place, election authorities are urging voters to read instructions carefully, remain calm, and ensure they complete all required steps before leaving the booth.

Officials say awareness is key, as a small mistake could lead to an invalid vote. Voters are being encouraged to understand the process in advance so polling day passes smoothly, without confusion or delays.