Wed Nov 20 02:20:00 UTC 2024: ## Maharashtra and Jharkhand Hold High-Stakes Assembly Elections

**Mumbai/Ranchi, [Date]:** Voting is underway in Maharashtra and Jharkhand for crucial state assembly elections, determining the fate of ruling and opposition alliances. Maharashtra is holding a single-phase election, while Jharkhand concludes its two-phase voting today.

Early voter turnout in Maharashtra stood at 6.61% and 12.71% in Jharkhand by 9 am. Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens, particularly women and youth, to participate.

**Maharashtra:** A total of 4,136 candidates are contesting 288 seats. The ruling Mahayuti alliance (BJP, Shinde-led Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar-led NCP) faces off against the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (Congress, Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena, and Sharad Pawar-led NCP). The Mahayuti’s campaign focused on popular schemes, while the MVA highlighted issues of social justice and constitutional protection. Smaller parties like BSP and AIMIM are also participating. The number of candidates has increased significantly compared to 2019.

**Jharkhand:** The second phase focuses on 38 of the 81 seats, with 528 candidates vying for positions, including Chief Minister Hemant Soren and his wife. The ruling JMM-Congress-RJD coalition defends its power against the BJP-led NDA. The campaign saw heated exchanges, with the NDA highlighting alleged corruption and infiltration concerns against the JMM, and the INDIA bloc promising welfare schemes.

Vote counting in both states will take place on Saturday. The elections are being closely watched nationwide, given the significant political stakes involved.

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