Maharashtra Election Results 2024: NDA takes an early lead over MVA, BJP-led alliance dominates Maharashtra Election Results 2024
The Maharashtra Election Results 2024 have unfolded the most dramatic political fight with the ruling Mahayuti alliance, led by BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP factions under Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar opening commanding leads early on in the counting process. With trends emerging on Saturday morning, the Mahayuti front was said to have cornered 47 seats within the first 30 minutes, while opposition MVA, comprising of Congress, Shiv Sena (Uddhav faction), and NCP (Sharad Pawar faction), trailed with just 9.
Very few expect the MVA to upset the status quo of the BJP-led alliance in Maharashtra, and exit polls too have kept slim hopes at bay. An average of 11 exit polls analyzed by NDTV predict that Mahayuti will win 155 seats, while MVA is expected to secure a paltry 120, with independents and smaller parties taking one each of the remaining 13 seats - but, of course, this is subject to change as exit polls often go wrong.
The polling for this year's election witnessed a very high turnout of 65.1%, one of the highest in recent years, and therefore, it was understandable that political leaders interpreted this as an endorsement or a challenge to the incumbent government. Devendra Fadnavis of the BJP, a big name in Maharashtra's political landscape, described this high turnout as a good omen for the current dispensation and feels that the people of Maharashtra are behind the BJP-led alliance.
The race for the Chief Minister's post has already begun to heat up with claims and counterclaims from both sides. Nana Patole of MVA contested this prediction, saying the Congress would emerge as the largest party, while Shiv Sena's Sanjay Raut said the final decision would be taken only after all the votes were counted. Cracks also appear to be showing in the Mahayuti alliance over who should take the top post, with BJP pitching for Devendra Fadnavis while Shinde and his faction would support Eknath Shinde for the role of Chief Minister.
This Maharashtra election will thus mark the course of politics in Maharashtra; the result might set a big impact on the state's next leadership and continue BJP rule for a definite term. The ongoing race for the Chief Minister's post features intense rivalry between factions, and the final result is going to shape the next phase of Maharashtra's political landscape.