Sat Nov 23 03:41:00 UTC 2024: ## Maharashtra and Jharkhand Election Results Begin; Bypolls Also Due
**New Delhi, [Date]** – Vote counting is underway in the crucial Maharashtra and Jharkhand assembly elections, with results expected throughout the day. The BJP-led NDA and the opposition INDIA bloc are facing off in a closely-watched contest in both states.
In Maharashtra’s 288-seat assembly, the ruling Mahayuti alliance (BJP, Shiv Sena – Eknath Shinde faction, and NCP – Ajit Pawar faction) is vying for a second term against the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance (Congress, Shiv Sena – Uddhav Thackeray faction, and NCP – Sharad Pawar faction). Most exit polls predicted a substantial victory for the Mahayuti. This election marks the first since significant splits within the Shiv Sena and NCP.
Jharkhand’s 81-seat assembly also sees a tight contest between the ruling JMM-led INDIA bloc, seeking re-election, and the BJP-led NDA, hoping to regain power. Exit polls offered mixed predictions, with some suggesting an NDA advantage and others forecasting a hung assembly.
In addition to the state elections, results are also being declared today for by-elections in 15 assembly constituencies across 14 states, including key seats in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Kerala, and Uttarakhand. The outcome of these elections will significantly impact the political landscape of the country.
First Piper 