Sharad Pawar Faces Major Electoral Setback As Mahayuti Alliance Dominates Maharashtra Elections 2024
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In what could be Sharad Pawar’s final Maharashtra Assembly elections, the Nationalist Congress Party-Sharad Pawar faction (NCP-SP) has faced a severe setback, trailing behind all major parties in the state. The NCP-SP has secured just one seat and is leading in 11 constituencies, marking one of its worst electoral performances.
Mahayuti Alliance Commands a Strong Lead
The ruling Mahayuti alliance, comprising the BJP, Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction, has crossed the majority mark with leads in over 200 seats. The BJP contested 148 seats, Shiv Sena fielded candidates in 80, and Ajit Pawar’s NCP ran in 53 constituencies. The remaining seats were allocated to smaller alliance partners, collectively ensuring a dominant position for the alliance.
Sharad Pawar’s Decline in Influence
After nearly six decades in active politics, Sharad Pawar had earlier hinted at retiring post-2026, making these elections potentially his last. However, his party’s dismal showing stands in stark contrast to its 2019 performance, where the undivided NCP had won 54 seats, outperforming even its ally, Congress, which secured 44 seats.
Ajit Pawar Outshines Sharad Pawar
Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction, despite contesting fewer seats, has outperformed the Sharad Pawar-led NCP-SP. Ajit Pawar celebrated his lead in Baramati with supporters, while Mahayuti leaders, including Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis and Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, marked the alliance’s victory with festivities across the state.
Congress and UBT Struggle As Well
The Congress, fielding 103 candidates, and Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena (UBT), contesting 89 seats, also lagged behind the Mahayuti alliance, further cementing the ruling coalition’s dominance.
Historical Shift in Maharashtra Politics
This election signals a significant realignment in Maharashtra’s political landscape. The Mahayuti alliance’s overwhelming success underscores the growing influence of its leadership and strategy, while traditional powerhouses like Sharad Pawar’s NCP-SP face diminishing electoral clout.
Elections for the 288-member Maharashtra Assembly were conducted on November 20, with the results showcasing a decisive mandate for the Mahayuti alliance.
