Thu Nov 21 13:55:35 UTC 2024: ## Maharashtra Votes in Tight Assembly Election; Results Due Saturday
**Mumbai, November 20** – Maharashtra held its state assembly elections today, with all 288 constituencies voting in a single phase. The election, which concluded at 6 pm, followed a heated campaign between the ruling BJP-led Mahayuti alliance and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA). Exit polls suggest a close contest, with a slight edge predicted for the Mahayuti.
The Mahayuti, comprising the BJP, Shiv Sena (Shinde faction), and NCP (Ajit Pawar faction), campaigned heavily on schemes like ‘Majhi Ladki Bahin’, while facing criticism for slogans perceived as divisive. The MVA, consisting of Shiv Sena (UBT), NCP (Sharad Pawar faction), and Congress, countered by emphasizing social justice and constitutional protection. The BJP also launched a late campaign criticizing the MVA, highlighting past events.
Election officials reported a relatively smooth voting process, though they addressed numerous complaints via the C-Vigil app and filed several cases for poll code violations, including significant seizures of alcohol and drugs. A dry day was observed across the state.
Vote counting will commence this Saturday, November 23, with the state holding its breath to see which alliance will form the next government.
First Piper 