The Maharashtra Assembly elections commenced at 7 am, with voters heading to the polls across all 288 constituencies. The results are scheduled to be announced on November 23. Prominent political figures, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and others addressed rallies statewide. The MVA, comprising Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and the Sharad Pawar camp of NCP, criticized the ruling alliance on the issue of that divisive slogans and policies. Senior leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Uddhav Thackeray targeted the BJP for increasing polarization. Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar and RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat were among the first to cast their votes. Ajit Pawar, along with his wife Sunetra, voted at Katewadi in Baramati, Pune district.
Record Number of Candidates in Fray
This election registered a 28% rise in candidates compared to the previous polls 2019. This time 4,136 candidates have filed their nominations for 288 seats. Out of these, 2,086 are independent candidates. Parties like Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and AIMIM are also in the fray. BSP has sent 237 candidates, while AIMIM has filed its nomination in 17 constituencies.
Early Voting and Turnout Updates
By 9 am, the state recorded a voter turnout of 6.61%. Mumbai City registered a 6.2% turnout, while Mumbai Suburbs saw a 7.8% turnout. Bhandup and Mulund led with over 10% of voting completed early.
Inputs by Agencies
Image Source: Multiple Agencies
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