As Maharashtra gears up for the upcoming Assembly elections, political parties are deep in preparations, with alliances like the Mahayuti and Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) preparing for a fierce contest. The Mahayuti, which includes the BJP, Shiv Sena, and a faction of the NCP, will face off against the MVA coalition of Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and Sharad Pawar’s NCP group. Discussions on seat-sharing for the 288 assembly constituencies are underway within the MVA, and an announcement is expected soon.
Shiv Sena UBT leader Sanjay Raut addressed the ongoing deliberations within the MVA, noting that, unlike the Lok Sabha elections, which had fewer seats to allocate, the assembly elections require more time and careful negotiations due to the sheer number of constituencies. “There are 288 seats, and three parties to divide them among. Each seat is being discussed in detail. Unlike the Lok Sabha elections, where candidates for most of the 48 seats are almost decided, the Assembly elections involve much more complexity,” Raut said, reported by TV9..
He dismissed speculation about any rigid formula guiding the seat-sharing process, stating that the primary focus is on identifying candidates with the best chance of winning. “We haven’t set a fixed formula. Our goal is simple: to unite and remove the current government of ‘corrupt and robbers.’ It’s all about selecting the strongest candidates in each constituency, not rigid seat numbers,” Raut explained.
Raut also touched on leadership within the alliance, emphasizing that while many may aspire to the post of Chief Minister, the final choice will be based on the people’s acceptance. “Everyone has a desire for the Chief Minister’s post, but ultimately, the face that resonates with the people will be the one chosen. It’s not just about party preferences, but about who can connect with the voters,” he said.
Raut took a dig at the BJP, claiming they lacked a credible local leader, with many of their faces being “borrowed.” “The BJP does not have a face in Maharashtra. Some votes have been secured due to Modi, but beyond that, they are struggling to find leadership that the people can relate to,” he remarked.
As the discussions continue within the MVA, the three-party alliance is determined to challenge the ruling BJP-led coalition, with seat-sharing agreements and leadership strategies expected to be finalized in the coming days.
