6 Key Reasons for NDA Historic Victory in Maharashtra Assembly Elections 2024 – It is a monumental victory for the NDA-led alliance, securing a dominant lead with 217 seats out of 288. The BJP emerged as the frontrunner with 124 seats, followed by Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) at 55, and NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) contributing 38 seats. This overwhelming majority reflects a blend of strategic governance, impactful initiatives, and voter confidence in the central leadership.
Also Read: Maharashtra Exit Polls
6 Key Reasons for NDA Historic Victory
1. Opposition to Caste-Based Census: “Ek hai to safe hai, batenge to katenge”
NDA’s resistance to a caste-wise census became a defining issue in the elections. The coalition emphasized unity over divisive identity politics with slogans like “Ek hai to safe hai, batenge to katenge” (United, we are safe; divided, we fall). This narrative appealed to a significant section of voters seeking stability and a focus on development rather than caste-based policies. Urban and middle-class voters were particularly drawn to this vision, viewing it as a means to ensure inclusivity and progress.
2. Financial Assistance for Women
A major game-changer in the rural and semi-urban electorate was the BJP’s ₹2,100 monthly financial assistance scheme for women. The initiative directly addressed economic concerns in vulnerable households, creating a strong support base among women voters. This program also reinforced the NDA’s image as a governance model prioritizing welfare and grassroots impact.
3. Fallout from Uddhav Thackeray’s Betrayal
The betrayal narrative stemming from the 2019 elections played a pivotal role in swaying public sentiment. Uddhav Thackeray’s decision to break ties with the BJP and form the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government with Congress and the NCP was highlighted by the NDA as a breach of voter trust. This portrayal undermined the credibility of the MVA, strengthening the NDA’s claim to being the more reliable coalition.
4. Double Engine Sarkar Advantage
The “Double Engine Sarkar” concept — the synergy between central and state governments — was a cornerstone of the NDA’s campaign. This model showcased the benefits of unified governance in delivering seamless infrastructure development, efficient welfare schemes, and economic growth. Voters saw this as a pathway to expedited progress in Maharashtra, further solidifying their support for the NDA.
5. Central Leadership Appeal
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership was a significant factor in NDA’s success. The PM’s strong governance track record at the national level and the visible progress in sectors like infrastructure, health, and economy resonated with voters. The central government’s policies and achievements became key talking points, enhancing the coalition’s appeal across demographics.
6. Effective Campaigning and Counter-Strategies
The NDA effectively neutralized opposition propaganda, which accused it of planning to abolish reservations and revise the Constitution. These claims were addressed through consistent messaging, emphasizing the NDA’s commitment to upholding reservations and constitutional integrity. The clarity and strength of the NDA’s counter-campaign ensured voter trust remained intact.
Why Congress Failed to Capitalize
Despite Congress’s success in Telangana and Karnataka, the party failed to make an impact in Maharashtra. Its leadership struggled to connect with the electorate, and campaign promises from neighboring states were perceived as inconsistent or irrelevant to Maharashtra’s needs. Additionally, internal divisions within the MVA alliance further weakened its position.
Lessons from Parliament Results: Bridging the Gap
In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the INDIA alliance won 30 out of 48 seats in Maharashtra. However, the NDA’s turnaround in the assembly elections highlights a significant shift. The NDA’s success can be attributed to a stronger local narrative, strategic welfare initiatives, and the electorate’s growing preference for stability over coalition politics.
The contrast between the Lok Sabha and assembly results underscores the importance of localized strategies. While the INDIA alliance capitalized on anti-incumbency sentiments at the parliamentary level, they failed to replicate the same momentum at the state level due to weak on-ground presence and ineffective leadership.
NDA susccessful in effectively countering the below negative propaganda that was made by INDIA during 2024 Lok Sabha elections
- Reservations Concerns: Opposition claims about NDA’s alleged plans to abolish reservations were dismissed through targeted messaging and evidence of continued reservation policies under BJP governance.
- Constitutional Revisions: Accusations about NDA planning constitutional changes were addressed head-on, with assurances of upholding the current framework.
Conclusion
NDA’s historic win in Maharashtra underscores the importance of strategic campaigning, impactful governance, and a clear vision for the future. This victory not only strengthens the NDA’s position in the state but also serves as a testament to the resonance of their development-first approach with the voters. As Maharashtra moves forward, this election result will likely shape the political and developmental trajectory of the state.
Source: Election Commission of India
