Thu Nov 21 08:53:42 UTC 2024: ## Neck-and-Neck Race in Maharashtra as Exit Polls Predict Close Contest
**Mumbai, November 20, 2024** – Exit polls released today paint a picture of a tight race in the Maharashtra Assembly elections, with the ruling Mahayuti alliance and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) neck-and-neck. While most surveys suggest a slight edge for the Mahayuti (comprising the BJP, Shinde-led Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar’s NCP), the MVA (Congress, Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena, and NCP (SP) faction) is predicted to be within striking distance.
Several exit polls project the Mahayuti securing between 137 and 195 seats out of 288, while the MVA’s projected seat count ranges from 90 to 150. These projections, however, come with a caveat. Exit polls in the 2019 Maharashtra elections significantly miscalculated the results, underlining the inherent uncertainties in such predictions.
State Minister Deepak Kesarkar expressed confidence, predicting the Mahayuti would secure over 160 seats with additional support from independent candidates. Conversely, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut confidently stated that the MVA would win a majority with 160-165 seats.
The high voter turnout of over 65.1%, the highest since 1995, adds another layer of complexity to the predictions. This surge in participation, attributed to the intensely fought campaign, could significantly impact the final outcome.
The election saw its share of controversies. A case was registered against individuals for vandalizing polling booths in Beed district, while allegations of Bitcoin funds being used in election campaigns created a major political stir.
While both Mahayuti and MVA leaders expressed confidence in forming the government, the exit polls suggest a closely contested race, with the final result hinging on a narrow margin. The official results will be declared on November 24th.
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