Sat Nov 23 06:43:15 UTC 2024: ## Maha Vikas Aghadi Trails in Maharashtra as NDA Leads in Early Trends; JMM Ahead in Jharkhand

**Mumbai, India** – The counting of votes for the Maharashtra and Jharkhand assembly elections concluded on November 23rd, revealing early trends indicating a significant lead for the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Maharashtra and a close contest in Jharkhand.

In **Maharashtra**, initial trends show the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), comprising the Congress, NCP (Sharad Pawar faction), and Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray faction), significantly trailing behind the NDA, which consists of the BJP, Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction), and NCP (Ajit Pawar faction). While the BJP is projected to win a substantial number of seats, the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) also appears to be performing well. Prominent MVA figures like Aaditya Thackeray (Worli) and Jishanu Siddiqui (son of Baba Siddiqui) are reportedly lagging behind their opponents. Congress leader Supriya Sule expressed disappointment with the results, stating they would need to reassess their strategy. Conversely, BJP leaders celebrated early projections, with sweets distributed at the Mumbai BJP office. MVA leader, Siddharth Mokale, expressed surprise at the results, suggesting they were unexpected and not reflective of pre-election sentiment.

In **Jharkhand**, the contest is proving tighter, with the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)-led INDIA alliance showing an initial lead over the BJP-led NDA. Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s JMM is projected to win a considerable number of seats, according to early trends. While the BJP is confident of forming the government, Soren has expressed confidence in securing a second term. Key constituencies and candidates from both alliances are closely watched. Congress leader Rajesh Thakur expressed optimism, attributing their projected success to their work and connection with the people.

Reactions from leaders across the political spectrum have been varied. BJP spokesperson Pratul Shah Deo predicted a victory for the NDA in Jharkhand, heralding the end of the Hemant Soren government. Union Minister Ramdas Athawale expressed confidence in the NDA’s victory in Maharashtra. Conversely, Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot expressed faith in the INDIA alliance’s performance in both states. The final results are pending but early projections suggest a significant victory for the NDA in Maharashtra and a closer race in Jharkhand.

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