Sun Nov 24 19:41:09 UTC 2024: ## Modi’s Influence and Leadership Questions Dominate Maharashtra Election Aftermath

**Mumbai, November 25, 2024** – The recently concluded Maharashtra Assembly elections saw Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s influence significantly shape voter choices, according to a Lokniti-CSDS survey. Over one-third of respondents cited Modi as a key factor in their decision, while nearly 20% mentioned Rahul Gandhi. However, a significant 30% stated that local issues, rather than national leaders, guided their vote.

The survey also highlighted the crucial role of Chief Ministerial candidates, or the lack thereof. Neither the winning Mahayuti (BJP-led coalition) nor the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) projected a CM face. The BJP’s decision to not explicitly name a CM candidate, despite being the largest party, contrasted sharply with the MVA’s internal disagreements. While the Shiv Sena (UBT) pushed for Uddhav Thackeray, the Congress and NCP preferred a post-election decision.

The survey revealed that approximately 25% of respondents favored the incumbent CM. Uddhav Thackeray garnered support from about 20%, while Devendra Fadnavis received slightly less. Interestingly, within the Mahayuti’s voter base, Eknath Shinde enjoyed a 10-percentage-point lead over Fadnavis, suggesting potential internal dynamics within the BJP. Within the MVA, Uddhav Thackeray received significantly more support than Sharad Pawar, with a surprising fraction also preferring Shinde. The results indicate complex interplay of national and local factors, internal party dynamics, and voter preferences influencing the election’s outcome.

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