Maharashtra’s political scene is still changing a lot, especially in the wake of the latest Lok Sabha elections, which changed the power structures and alliances of the state’s main political figures. Not only has the outcome of the elections earlier this year affected the current political climate, but it has also shaped the course of approaching elections for state assemblies.
The Political Environment Following Elections
The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, which is made up of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), the Congress, and the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction), won a total of 30 out of 48 seats in the Lok Sabha elections of 2024, marking a critical turning point for Maharashtra. The Congress made a significant return, winning 13 seats, a significant gain from its prior results. Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena side got 9 seats, and Sharad Pawar’s NCP won 8 seats[1][2].
In sharp contrast, the ruling coalition, comprising the BJP, the Ajit Pawar branch of the NCP, and the Shiv Sena faction led by Eknath Shinde, was only able to capture 17 seats, a substantial decrease from their prior totals. With just 9 seats in the most recent elections, the BJP’s performance in comparison to its 23 seats in 2014 and 2019 was especially disappointing. The BJP’s campaign tactics, which mostly depended on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s popularity and a divisive Hindutva narrative that eventually failed to connect with voters, have come under scrutiny in light of this decline[1][2].
Important Political People and Their Incomes
Eknath Shinde
Following the elections, Maharashtra’s Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, has become a significant figure. Shinde has cemented his place in the administration by leading his Shiv Sena side to victory in 7 of the 15 contested seats. His capacity to efficiently oversee elections has been emphasised, especially when compared to the underwhelming performance of his deputies, Ajit Pawar and Devendra Fadnavis. Shinde’s political savvy is demonstrated by his faction’s victory in direct battles against Uddhav Thackeray’s candidates. It is anticipated that he will use this strength in future discussions, particularly with regard to seat-sharing arrangements for the forthcoming assembly elections[1][2].
Devendra Fadnavis
However, in light of the election results, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis finds himself in a difficult position. Even though he refrained from running for office, the BJP’s crushing defeat has clouded his leadership. The BJP experienced a crisis of confidence as a result of his unrealistic pledge to deliver at least 30 seats. Since the Maratha community’s growing anger is affecting Fadnavis’s campaign efforts, his once-strong political status has been seriously damaged, and his future in Maharashtra politics seems uncertain[1][2].
Ajit Pawar
Another Deputy Chief Minister and well-known NCP figure, Ajit Pawar, has also experienced difficulties. Only one of the four contested seats was won by his faction, casting doubt on his capacity as a leader. His position has been further undermined by his inability to ensure victory for his wife in Baramati against his niece, Supriya Sule. Ajit Pawar’s influence and negotiating power within the ruling coalition would be greatly reduced if there are signs of dissatisfaction within his side, which could result in a realignment of support back to Sharad Pawar[1][2].
Civil Society’s Role
The expanding influence of civil society organisations in Maharashtra’s political sphere has also been brought to light by the latest elections. Organisations like Lok Morcha 2024 and Bharat Jodo Abhiyan Maharashtra have been active in electorate mobilisation and public policy advocacy. Their participation has helped the MVA gain traction, especially among marginalised populations, which has been critical to the election results[2].
Present-Day Political Advancements
Maharashtra is still dealing with a number of political issues and changes as of July 24, 2024. There are current discussions in the state about policy reforms, governance, and the aftermath of the last election outcomes. As the state is ready for the assembly elections, the MVA’s comeback has spurred conversations about the BJP and its allies’ future plans as well as the possibility of more alliance changes.
In conclusion, there has been a notable change in the political landscape in Maharashtra, with the MVA gaining ground and the ruling coalition encountering obstacles that could fundamentally alter the political landscape of the state. The way that prominent political personalities, civil society, and the electorate interact will be essential in deciding how this story develops in the future.
Referral:
[1] https://www.newindianexpress.com/web-only/2024/Jun/06/maharashtra-politics-famous-five-and-what-verdict-2024-means-for-them
[2] https://frontline.thehindu.com/election-2024/maharashtra-lok-sabha-election-2024-sharad-pawar-uddhav-balasaheb-thackeray-pm-modi-maha-vikas-aghadi/article68262094.ece
[3] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7xoGDHqcxeQ
[4] https://marathi.abplive.com/news/maharashtra/maharashtra-breaking-news-live-updates-24th-july-2024-parliament-budget-session-mahayuti-vs-maha-vikas-aaghadi-ajit-pawar-devendra-fadnavis-rain-updates-in-mumbai-pune-satara-konkan-politics-crime-news-1300398
[5] https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/mumbai-news/politicians-and-liquor-a-unique-blend-101644254721458.html
