Over six lakh voters eligible to vote in Guntur civic polls on October 28

Guntur Municipal Commissioner K. Mayur Ashok reviews arrangements at the election material distribution centre at AC College in Guntur. File | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement The Guntur Municipal Corporation (GMC) has geared up for the civic elections scheduled for October 28. As many as 6,09,667 voters are eligible to exercise their franchise across 76 wards through 596 polling stations.According to the civic body’s electoral figures, the electorate comprises 2,96,222 men, 3,13,366 women and 79 voters belonging to other categories. The counting of votes will take place on October 30.Municipal Commissioner and Additional Election Authority K. Mayur Ashok said the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) came into force immediately after the State Election Commission released the local body election schedule on Wednesday (October 14, 2026). He directed officials to ensure free, fair and transparent elections while strictly enforcing electoral regulations. The civic body has appointed 27 Returning Officers (ROs), 76 Assistant Returning Officers (AROs) and 13 zonal officers to oversee the election process. Ward-level offices have been established for the ROs to facilitate election-related activities.The schedule provides for receiving nominations from October 16 to 18, between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Scrutiny of nominations will take place on October 19, and the deadline for withdrawal is October 21 at 3 p.m. The final list of contesting candidates will be published after the withdrawal deadline.Addressing election officials here on Thursday (October 15, 2026), Mr. Mayur Ashok instructed them to remain politically neutral and ensure uniform enforcement of the MCC across all wards. Officials have begun covering statues of political leaders and removing posters and banners. Political photographs and campaign material must also be removed from government offices and buildings.He warned that violations would invite stringent disciplinary action without prior warning. Government employees have been prohibited from participating in political campaigns or expressing political support through social media. Officials were also directed to prevent cash or gift distribution to influence voters and prohibit campaigning within 100 metres of polling stations.The Commissioner urged voters to exercise their franchise responsibly and called upon officials to coordinate effectively to ensure smooth elections without disrupting routine government services. Published - October 15, 2026 04:53 pm IST