The Maharashtra Assembly election results signal a decisive victory for the BJP-led MahaYuti alliance, with trends from the Election Commission of India showing the coalition leading in over 200 of the state’s 288 constituencies. The BJP is ahead in 115 seats, the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) in 56 seats, and Ajit Pawar’s NCP in 34 seats.
In contrast, the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) has struggled, leading in only 53 seats—Congress in 22, Shiv Sena (UBT) in 20, and the NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) in 11. The results showcase a shift in the political landscape, with BJP achieving a strike rate of over 78% in the 148 seats it contested, thanks to significant Hindu vote consolidation.
Key Highlights of Maharashtra Elections
- Amit Shah Congratulates Devendra Fadnavis: Union Home Minister Amit Shah congratulated BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis on the coalition’s stellar performance.
- Cabinet Oath Ceremony Scheduled for November 26: News18 reported that the new Cabinet will be sworn in on November 26, coinciding with the end of the current Assembly’s term.
- Worli Upset for Aaditya Thackeray: In a major setback, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray is trailing in Worli against Milind Deora, who is contesting under the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) banner.
- Celebrations in Baramati: Supporters of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar erupted in joy as he took a lead of over 15,000 votes in his stronghold of Baramati.
- Congress Disappointed: Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate called the results “disappointing” but emphasized the party’s strong performance in Jharkhand as a silver lining.
- Devendra Fadnavis Likely to Become Chief Minister: BJP leader Pravin Darekar hinted at Devendra Fadnavis returning as Chief Minister, citing the public’s mandate for BJP governance at both state and central levels.
- Prime Minister Modi to Address BJP Headquarters: As victory trends solidify, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to arrive at the BJP headquarters at 6:30 pm to celebrate the alliance’s win.
Party Strike Rates in Maharashtra
- BJP: 84% (122/145)
- Shiv Sena (Shinde): 71% (58/81)
- NCP (Ajit Pawar): 62% (37/59)
- Congress: 19.2% (20/102)
- Shiv Sena (UBT): 20.6% (18/92)
- NCP (Sharad Pawar): 11.6% (10/86)
Who Will Lead Maharashtra?
While the BJP’s strong performance strengthens Devendra Fadnavis’ claim to the Chief Ministerial position, reports suggest Eknath Shinde may retain the role if the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) secures over 40 seats, a target they are close to achieving.
The MahaYuti’s landslide win signals a significant political realignment in Maharashtra, with voters favouring the BJP-led coalition’s governance and agenda.