Mumbai, November 22: Maharashtra awaits the results of its fiercely contested assembly elections tomorrow, a verdict that could redefine the state’s political landscape. Leaders of the ruling Mahayuti (BJP-Shiv Sena-NCP) and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) (Congress-Shiv Sena-UBT-NCP-SP) remain optimistic, each claiming the increased voter turnout signals their impending victory.
The stakes are high for both alliances, especially after significant splits within the Shiv Sena and NCP. Polling for the 288-member assembly saw a 66.05% turnout, surpassing the 61% recorded in 2019. Vote counting begins at 8 AM, with trends likely to emerge within two hours.
Key Highlights:
- Electoral Strategies:
Chief Electoral Officer S. Chockalingam praised the Election Commission’s meticulous planning, which boosted voter registration and facilitated smooth voting, particularly in urban areas like Mumbai. - Alliance Dynamics:
- Mahayuti: BJP contested 148 seats, Shiv Sena (led by CM Eknath Shinde) 80, and NCP (led by Deputy CM Ajit Pawar) 52, with six more candidates fielded.
- MVA: Congress fielded 102 candidates, Shiv Sena (UBT) 96, and NCP (SP) 86, alongside smaller allies.
- Leaders’ Confidence:
- MVA: Priyanka Chaturvedi (Shiv Sena-UBT) predicted a decisive win, terming the ruling alliance a “government of loot and corruption.” Sanjay Raut forecasted 160-165 seats for MVA.
- Mahayuti: BJP’s Tarun Chugh expressed confidence in a clean sweep, emphasizing PM Modi’s pro-poor governance.
- Historical Context:
This election marks the first since the dramatic splits within the NCP and Shiv Sena, with both factions eager to assert their relevance. The BJP, aiming for continued dominance, looks to improve on its 2019 tally of 105 seats. - Exit Poll Predictions:
Exit polls indicate a tight race, with a slight edge for Mahayuti in some scenarios.
The outcome will also determine the political trajectory of Uddhav Thackeray, who seeks to reclaim lost ground after his party’s split, and Ajit Pawar, who hopes to solidify his position within the ruling coalition.
Results will also be announced for the Jharkhand assembly polls and bypolls for 48 assembly and two Lok Sabha seats.
