Mahayuti Gears Up for Victory: Bawankule Predicts Historic Win in Maharashtra Elections

Nagpur: BJP state president Chandrashekhar Bawankule threw down the gauntlet on Tuesday, declaring that the Mahayuti alliance — comprising BJP, Shiv Sena (Shinde faction), and NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) — is not only prepared to retain power but to surpass their 2019 seat tally.

Currently, the Mahayuti, with its allied independents, holds about 210 seats in the 288-member Maharashtra assembly. Bawankule, addressing reporters at Nagpur airport, expressed full confidence that the alliance would increase its numbers in the upcoming elections. "Our groundwork is solid. We're ready to paint Maharashtra saffron again, and this time with even broader strokes," he said, setting the tone for an aggressive election campaign.

Double-Engine Govt Pitch

At the core of the Mahayuti's strategy is the narrative of a ‘double-engine govt', referring to the synergy between the central and state govts. Bawankule emphasized that this alignment would ensure rapid development and growth for Maharashtra. "We're not just asking for votes; we're inviting Maharashtra on a five-year journey of unprecedented progress," he said, highlighting the success of state and central schemes under the BJP leadership.

The BJP president underscored that the upcoming campaign would focus heavily on the achievements of both, the Modi govt at the Centre and the Shinde-Fadnavis govt in the state. These accomplishments, Bawankule suggested, would form the backbone of the alliance's pitch to voters.

Booth-Level Strategy in Place

Bawankule's confidence stems not just from rhetoric but from detailed planning. He revealed that the alliance has a robust booth-level strategy in place, designed to connect with every voter, from urban centres like Mumbai to the most remote villages. "Our organisation is our strength. From metro cities to the smallest hamlets, our cadres are ready to tell the Mahayuti story of development," Bawankule elaborated.

Opposition Criticism and Rebuttals

Taking direct aim at the opposition, Bawankule criticised their disorganised approach and constant complaints about the Election Commission. "They're like chameleons, changing their colours with every criticism. Deep down, they've already accepted defeat," he quipped, predicting that the opposition would blame EVMs or the Election Commission after the results, just as they did during previous elections.

Looking Ahead: Key Decisions Await

As the Mahayuti ramps up for the elections, key decisions are yet to be made. Bawankule hinted at an upcoming meeting of the Central Election Committee, where candidates for sitting seats will be finalised. Confident of the Mahayuti's track record, he stated, "Our performance over the last two-and-a-half years far outweighs the Maha Vikas Aghadi govt led by Uddhav Thackeray. Maharashtra wants to work under Prime Minister Narendra Modi again."