Maharashtra Assembly Elections 2024: Key Contest Picture to Clear After Today’s Withdrawal Deadline
Reported by Tikam Shekhawat
Pune, 4th November 2024: Today marks the final day for candidates to withdraw their nominations for the Maharashtra Assembly Elections, with the deadline set for 3 PM. After this, the final list of candidates across all 288 constituencies will be confirmed, solidifying the contests for the November 20 polls.
The ongoing battle between the Mahayuti (BJP, Shiv Sena, NCP alliance) and Maha Vikas Aghadi (NCP (Sharad Pawar)-Congress-Shiv Sena Thackeray) is seeing rising tension due to internal rebellions on both sides, bringing independent candidates into sharp focus as potential kingmakers.
A total of 10,905 nomination papers from 7,995 candidates have been submitted, reflecting intense competition across the state. The election process began with the release of the official notification on October 22, following the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct on October 15. Nominations were scrutinized on October 30, and today’s deadline for withdrawals marks the final step before official campaigns can intensify. Voting will take place on November 20, and the counting of votes will be held on November 23.
The ongoing withdrawal phase coincides with post-Diwali holidays, during which government offices were closed for three days, making today the only opportunity for candidates to make their final decision to stay in the race or withdraw.
Bhokar Assembly Constituency in Nanded district has recorded the highest number of nomination applications, with 167 candidates filing their papers. Among the notable candidates is Srijaya Ashok Chavan, daughter of former Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, who is contesting on a BJP ticket. This seat is expected to witness a high-profile contest.
In contrast, Kankavli constituency in the Konkan region has seen the fewest nominations, with only 9 candidates in the fray. BJP’s Nitesh Rane, a prominent figure, is contesting from here and faces a challenge from Sandesh Parkar of the Shiv Sena (Thackeray faction).
With the stage set for the elections, both major alliances—Mahayuti and Maha Vikas Aghadi—are gearing up for intense campaigns. However, the presence of rebel candidates and independents could significantly influence the final outcome in several constituencies.
