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The Mahayuti alliance, comprising the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Ajit Pawar-led NCP, and Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, is facing significant challenges in finalizing seat-sharing arrangements amidst ongoing discussions. As the first phase of elections approaches in a matter of weeks, the prominent political entities of Maharashtra are struggling to reach a consensus on the allocation of seats. Despite assurances from the alliance partners, the exact distribution of seats remains uncertain.
A Detailed Timeline of Seat-Sharing Talks:
First Round of Talks in Mumbai: Initial discussions revealed differing preferences among the BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP regarding the allocation of seats. Negotiations intensified, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah convening crucial meetings involving leaders from all parties. The first round of discussions occurred on March 5, followed by further deliberations.
‘80% Issues Resolved’: Deputy CM Fadnavis: A subsequent meeting on March 8, attended by key leaders from Maharashtra and Delhi, showed progress in resolving several issues. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described the talks as “positive,” stating that approximately 80% of the issues were addressed, albeit major disagreements persisted, particularly concerning seats won in previous elections.
‘Discussion on Six Seats Pending’: Sena MP Rahul Shewale: Multiple rounds of negotiations ensued, focusing on specific constituencies and the allocation of seats among the alliance partners. Shiv Sena MP Rahul Shewale announced on March 18 that candidates had been finalized for 42 Lok Sabha seats, with discussions ongoing for six seats. The allocation stood at 13 seats for Shiv Sena, six for NCP, and 26 for BJP.
‘99% of Seat-Sharing Completed’: Ajit Pawar in Pune: Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar declared on March 26 that 99% of the seat-sharing process had been concluded, with the remaining candidates set to be announced on March 28 in a joint press conference.
‘Close to Finalizing Seats..’: Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis: In the latest update on April 1, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis indicated that the Mahayuti allies are nearing the finalization of seat-sharing arrangements. He confirmed the decision to field candidates in Lok Sabha constituencies going to polls in the second phase.
“We are close to finalizing the seats, and we will announce the arrangement soon,” remarked the Deputy CM, addressing concerns over the delay in seat-sharing discussions among Mahayuti partners.
