Thu Nov 21 04:43:15 UTC 2024: ## Maharashtra Assembly Elections Conclude with 58.43% Turnout; Exit Polls Predict BJP-led Alliance Victory

**Mumbai, November 20, 2024** – Polling for the Maharashtra Assembly elections concluded at 6 p.m. today with a final voter turnout of 58.43%, according to official data. While Sillod constituency in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district reported the highest turnout at 70.46% (until 5 p.m.), Jalna district led with an overall 64.17% voting rate. A total of 4,136 candidates contested for the 288 assembly seats. This turnout is slightly lower than the 61.74% recorded in the 2019 elections. The Election Commission expressed concern over persistently low urban voter participation in cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Thane, despite efforts to improve accessibility and encourage voting.

The election day saw isolated incidents of vandalism in Parli and other areas of Beed district, as well as clashes between rival party supporters.

**Exit Polls Predict Mahayuti Victory:**

Most exit polls predict a victory for the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance, although projections vary. Republic TV-PMARQ projects 137-157 seats for Mahayuti, 126-147 for the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), and 2-8 for others. ABP-Matrize projects 150-170 seats for Mahayuti and 110-130 for MVA. Other polls offer different predictions, but most place Mahayuti ahead. The majority mark in the Maharashtra Assembly is 145.

**Notable Developments:**

* For the first time, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray voted for their respective relatives contesting the elections.
* Congress leader Praniti Shinde publicly supported an independent candidate in Solapur South, despite the candidate being from a party in the MVA alliance, highlighting internal conflicts within the coalition.
* The Enforcement Directorate arrested a man in connection with a cash-for-votes money laundering investigation.
* Webcasting from all polling booths in Thane district ensured unprecedented transparency.
* Several incidents of violence and alleged electoral malpractice were reported, including an alleged attack on a Shiv Sena worker and allegations of cash and liquor distribution. A case was registered against Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Kedar Dighe for alleged possession of liquor and cash, and an FIR was filed against unidentified individuals for allegedly firing at a Shiv Sena candidate’s car.

The Election Commission also reported that an EVM malfunctioned briefly at a polling station in Nashik, causing a temporary delay.

Counting of votes will take place on November 23, 2024. The results will determine whether the ruling Mahayuti retains power or if the MVA can stage a successful comeback.

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