Unexpected and unimaginable: Opposition on Mahayuti’s victory

MVA critiques BJP-led Mahayuti alliance after unexpected Maharashtra Assembly election results, questioning voter support and electoral integrity.

The Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) on Saturday (November 23, 2024) described the Maharashtra Assembly election results as “unexpected and unimaginable”, even while delivering a sharp critique of the winning BJP-led Mahayuti alliance.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray questioned the basis of public support for the Mahayuti, citing unresolved issues such as the plight of soybean farmers, industries shifting to Gujarat, concerns over women’s safety, rising inflation, and crop loan waivers. “Why have people voted for the Mahayuti? These results are not just a ‘wave’ but a ‘tsunami’,” he said, expressing disbelief over the outcome.

Ramesh Chennithala, the All India Congress Committee’s in-charge of Maharashtra, said the defeat of veterans such as Balasaheb Thorat and former Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan has shocked the Congress ranks. “How can stalwarts like Balasaheb Thorat, an eight-time MLA, and former Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan lose? Our cadre is shocked, and we will study these results thoroughly,” he said. While taking full responsibility for the party’s defeat, the Congress leader also maintained faith in the people of Maharashtra. “We trust the people, and we believe they won’t accept this result as final,” he added.

Also read: Maharashtra election results 2024 LIVE updates

He compared the Congress’s strong performance in the State in the Lok Sabha election earlier this year to the unexpected loss in the Assembly election, questioning the drastic shift in electoral fortunes in just five months. “Is it possible to change the situation so quickly? The issues plaguing the State cannot be resolved with mere promises like Ladki Bahen,” he said, referring to the Mahayuti’s flagship welfare scheme for women.

Referencing the BJP’s long-standing push for simultaneous polls through its “one nation, one election” demand, Mr. Thackeray claimed that BJP national president J.P. Nadda has hinted at a “vision of one party”.

“Even J.P. Nadda said they want only one party,” Mr. Thackeray said, warning that such ambitions undermine democratic plurality. He accepted the victory of the Mahayuti but did so with veiled sarcasm, congratulating the BJP while casting doubt on their ability to fulfill their promises. “I hope this time they will have their Chief Minister, and I congratulate them. I also hope they will deliver ₹2,100 to Ladki Bahen and announce a crop loan waiver, as promised,” he said.