Wed Nov 20 07:56:05 UTC 2024: ## Maharashtra Assembly Elections 2024: High Voter Turnout, Celebrity Endorsements, and Allegations Dominate Polling Day

**Mumbai, November 28, 2024** – Maharashtra witnessed a significant voter turnout on Wednesday as the state went to the polls for its Assembly elections. Polling stations across the state reported a steady stream of voters throughout the day, with early reports indicating an 18.14% turnout by 11 am. Security was tight, with 3,000 personnel deployed in Nashik alone. A 100-year-old woman, Kantaben Dani, defied her family’s concerns to cast her vote, highlighting the widespread enthusiasm.

The elections have seen a highly competitive race amongst six to seven major parties, prompting intense campaigning and a focus on maximizing voter turnout. Political parties deployed booth-level workers and backroom managers in a bid to secure every vote.

Several prominent figures from the film and political worlds participated in the elections and encouraged citizens to exercise their franchise. Actor Rahul Bose urged voters to understand their rights and responsibilities, while celebrities like Hema Malini, Tushar Kapoor, Kartik Aaryan, Riteish Deshmukh, Genelia D’Souza, Sonu Sood, Vishal Dadlani, and Sachin Tendulkar all cast their votes and encouraged others to do the same. Union ministers Piyush Goyal and Nitin Gadkari also participated, expressing confidence in their respective alliances’ victories.

However, the day was not without controversy. Allegations of cash distribution against BJP leader Vinod Tawde surfaced, sparking a fierce exchange between the ruling Mahayuti and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA). The BJP denied the allegations, while the MVA demanded an investigation. Further allegations involving the use of illegal bitcoin funds in the election campaign were leveled against NCP leader Supriya Sule and Congress leader Nana Patole by the BJP, prompting denials and legal notices. Both Sule and Patole vehemently refuted the claims. Leaders from both sides engaged in a war of words throughout the day, with accusations and counter-accusations flying. Sharad Pawar and other senior leaders also addressed the ongoing controversies, expressing confidence in their respective alliances and urging calm.

Despite the controversies, the overall tone of the day was one of active participation in the democratic process. The Chief Electoral Officer of Maharashtra appealed for continued participation, highlighting the efforts made to ensure smooth and peaceful voting. The high-profile participation of various personalities underscored the importance of the election to the people of Maharashtra. The results will be declared on November 23rd.

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