Polling for the 288 assembly constituencies in Maharashtra began today, November 20, with voting open until 6 PM. The elections mark a fierce contest between the ruling BJP-led Mahayuti alliance and the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, which is vying for a strong comeback.
A total of 4,136 candidates are contesting the elections, including 2,086 independents. Over 150 constituencies are witnessing rebels from both the Mahayuti and MVA alliances, who are contesting against their respective parties’ official candidates. Also, elaborate security measures have been put in place to ensure smooth polling across the state.
Supriya Sule Casts Her Vote with Family
NCP leader Supriya Sule, along with her family, cast their votes and proudly displayed their inked fingers. The NCP has fielded Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, while the NCP-SCP alliance has nominated Yugendra Pawar from Baramati, a high-profile constituency.
#WATCH | #MaharashtraAssemblyElections2024 | NCP-SCP MP Supriya Sule casts her vote at a polling station in Baramati.
NCP has fielded Deputy CM Ajit Pawar and NCP-SCP has fielded Yugendra Pawar from the Baramati Assembly constituency. pic.twitter.com/u9bsZu9zSp
— ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2024
RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das
#WATCH | Mumbai: After casting his vote, RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das says, “The arrangements (at the polling station) were very good. I congratulate the Election Commission. The elections are being held in the middle of the week, so everyone is expecting a high voter turnout.” pic.twitter.com/aFDgdQnaSt
— ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2024
Actor Akshay Kumar Encourages Voters
Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar exercised his franchise and urged citizens to do the same. Speaking after casting his vote, he said:
“The arrangements here are commendable, especially for senior citizens. Cleanliness has been well-maintained. I encourage everyone to come out and cast their vote.”
#WATCH | Mumbai: Actor Akshay Kumar shows his inked finger after casting his vote for #MaharashtraAssemblyElections2024
He says “The arrangements here are very good as I can see that arrangements for senior citizens are very good and cleanliness has been maintained. I want… pic.twitter.com/QXpmDuBKJ7
— ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2024
With a large voter base and intense competition, this election is pivotal for Maharashtra’s political future. The outcome will decide whether the ruling Mahayuti alliance retains power or the MVA alliance stages a comeback.
The results will be declared on November 23, setting the stage for the next chapter in Maharashtra’s governance.