Votes are being counted for Maharashtra’s 288-member legislature today. Internal disputes over the office of chief minister are intensifying in both the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and the current Mahayuti party. Splits in their coalitions are being revealed by leaders from both factions publicly pushing for the top spot.
Congress Sparks Conflict in MVA
In the MVA camp, Congress leader Nana Patole sparked controversy by asserting that Congress would lead the alliance government. He stated, “Voting trends suggest the Congress will win the most seats.”
However, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut disagreed. He insisted that all alliance partners would jointly decide the chief minister. “If the Congress high command has chosen Patole, senior leaders like Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, or Rahul Gandhi should announce it,” Raut said, according to the sources.
The MVA includes Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and the NCP (Sharad Pawar faction). While they claim to be united, Patole’s remarks reveal underlying tensions within the bloc.
Leadership Battle in Mahayuti
The Mahayuti alliance is also divided over leadership. Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Shirsat supported Eknath Shinde as the natural choice for chief minister. He emphasized that the election was fought under Shinde’s leadership.
Meanwhile, BJP leader Pravin Darekar supported deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis. On the other hand, NCP leader Amol Mitkari pushed for Ajit Pawar to take the top role. “All three Mahayuti partners will decide the CM together,” Darekar said. He dismissed the MVA’s chances of forming a government.
Darekar also pointed to tensions in the opposition. He mentioned how Congress MP Praniti Shinde supported an independent candidate against a Shiv Sena (UBT) nominee in Solapur.
Exit Polls and Accusations
Most exit polls predict a Mahayuti win, while some favor the MVA. Darekar downplayed the polls and expressed confidence in independent winners supporting the ruling coalition.
He also accused MVA leaders, including Supriya Sule and Nana Patole, of using bitcoins to fund campaigns. Both leaders denied these allegations.
Higher Turnout and Women’s Support
The Election Commission reported a 66.05% voter turnout, an increase from 61.1% in 2019. Darekar credited the RSS for mobilizing voters. He also claimed that the Mahayuti’s Ladki Bahin Yojana gained significant support from women voters.
Fierce Fight for Chief Minister
As results approach, the fight for the chief minister’s post intensifies. Both alliances must resolve their internal disputes to secure leadership. The final decision will likely depend on their ability to maintain unity.