Maharashtra Government Formation Live Updates: : No clarity yet on new CM as Shinde resigns, to stay on as caretaker

Maharashtra govt formation: Deal was Shiv Sena chief would be CM, says neta close to Eknath Shinde

A Shiv Sena neta close to Eknath Shinde said there was an agreement after the Lok Sabha elections that Shinde would take over the reins of the state if Mahayuti won the assembly polls. The neta said that after the Mahayuti's debacle in the LS polls, there were a series of meetings to draft a strategy for the assembly elections. In these meetings, it was decided that BJP would contest the maximum number of seats followed by Shiv Sena and NCP, but "irrespective of the number of seats the Mahayuti constituents win, Shinde will continue to be the CM if Mahayuti secures a clear majority," the neta said. Read full story

Left leader Narsayya Adam bows out of electoral politics after elections loss

Veteran CPI(M) leader Narasayya Adam, 80, announced his retirement from electoral politics after losing the Solapur City Central seat in the Maharashtra assembly polls to BJP's Devendra Kothe by 48,850 votes. Known as "Adam Master," he cited EVM issues, defamation, and communal rifts for his defeat. A three-time MLA, Adam is celebrated for championing affordable housing for slum workers in Solapur. Though stepping back from elections, he plans to mentor new leaders and continue working for laborers. Adam previously supported Congress leader Praniti Shinde in the 2024 general elections but faced setbacks due to disputes over Congress's promised backing for his candidacy.

Ramdas Athawale backs Fadnavis as Maharashtra CM; says Shinde can shift to Centre

RPI(A) leader and Union Minister Ramdas Athawale has urged a swift resolution to the chief ministerial decision in Maharashtra, suggesting Eknath Shinde move to the Centre as a Union minister and endorsing BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis for the state's top post. Athawale argued that the BJP, with the most Assembly seats, should lead the government, while acknowledging the Shiv Sena's preference for Shinde to continue due to his governance record.

Athawale noted that NCP leader Ajit Pawar has ruled himself out of the race for chief minister and emphasized the urgency of resolving the leadership issue, referencing Constitution Day as an ideal deadline. He also called for an RPI member to be made an MLC and minister in the state government, lamenting the party's loss in Dharavi and Kalina during the recent elections.

Shinde or Fadnavis? 'BJP in no rush to name CM, focus on forming cohesive government'

Following a resounding victory in the Maharashtra assembly elections, the BJP is taking a cautious approach to naming its chief ministerial candidate. While Devendra Fadnavis is considered the frontrunner, the decision is pending portfolio allocation and discussions with coalition partners Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar's NCP. Eknath Shinde has resigned as CM but remains a contender, backed by Shiv Sena. Read full story

Claim of Cong candidate getting 'zero votes' in Maharashtra Assembly polls false

A viral video falsely claimed that Congress candidate Kunalbaba Rohidas Patil received "zero votes" in Avadhan village, Dhule Rural constituency, sparking allegations of vote manipulation against the BJP. A PTI Fact Check revealed the claim to be false. The Dhule District Information Office clarified that no such incident occurred and confirmed that Patil received 1,057 votes across four polling stations in Avadhan. Election officials also verified this information. The BJP's Raghvendra Patil won the seat with 1,70,398 votes, while Kunalbaba Patil secured 1,04,078 votes. The video’s origin remains unknown.

Dharmendra Pradhan slams Congress after poor show in Maharashtra

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan criticised the Congress for its poor performance in Maharashtra and other states, calling it a "shop of illusion, lies, and deception." Highlighting that Maharashtra is the 17th state where Congress holds less than 10% of assembly seats, Pradhan said people across India have rejected the party's "divisive tactics" and "empty promises."

In the Maharashtra elections, the BJP secured 132 seats, while allies Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction) and NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) won 57 and 41 seats, respectively. The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) suffered a major defeat, with Congress winning only 16 of the 101 seats it contested. Meanwhile, in Haryana, the BJP retained power with 48 seats, forming its third consecutive government.

'Ek(Nath) hain to safe hain': Shiv Sena leader tweaks PM Modi's slogan to pitch for Shinde as Maharashtra chief minister

The Shiv Sena on Tuesday gave an interesting tweak to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's election slogan "Ek hain to safe hain" as it continued with its strong pitch for Eknath Shinde as the next chief minister of Maharashtra.Sena leader Manisha Kayande tweaked the popular slogan to write on X "Ek(Nath) hai to safe hain" - suggesting that the ruling Mahayuti of BJP, Shiv Sena and the NCP is safe under Eknath Shinde. The Sena is insisting that Shinde should be allowed to continue as the chief minister after ruling Mahayuti's spectacular victory in the just concluded assembly elections. Read full story

Congress to hold its CWC meeting on Nov 29, focus on defeat in Maharashtra, Haryana elections

The Congress Working Committee will meet on November 29 to address its dismal performance in Maharashtra and Haryana elections. In Maharashtra, the MVA alliance suffered a setback, with Congress winning only 16 of the 101 seats it contested. The BJP, along with allies, secured a commanding majority. In Haryana, Congress won 37 seats, while the BJP formed its third consecutive government. TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee criticized Congress for failing to meet expectations and called for unified leadership within the INDIA bloc to effectively challenge the BJP.

Sanjay Raut mocks Mahayuti leaders, predicts Fadnavis as next Maharashtra CM

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut criticized the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar-led NCP, calling them "sub-companies of BJP" under Union Home Minister Amit Shah and PM Narendra Modi. Predicting BJP's Devendra Fadnavis as the next Maharashtra Chief Minister, Raut accused the BJP of potentially breaking alliances for a majority.

Sena (UBT) MLA blames rival faction for clashes in Mehkar

Siddharth Kharat, newly-elected Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA from Mehkar in eastern Maharashtra's Buldhana district blamed the rival faction of the Shiv Sena for the violence after the assembly elections results. Police have registered cases against 23 persons after two groups clashed in Mehkar city on Sunday night. Speaking to reporters on Monday, Kharat, who defeated three-time MLA Sanjay Raimulkar of the Shiv Sena led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, said it was also a defeat of Union minister and Buldhana's Shiv Sena MP Prataprao Jadhav. Jadhav and Raimulkar "could not digest their defeat," he said, accusing the rival Shiv Sena supporters of instigating violence. To avoid confrontation, he changed the route of the procession on the police's request, Kharat added. Elsewhere, Jadhav, commenting on the clashes, said elections come and go but everyone should preserve peace. Those who won and even those who lost should accept the result in a sporting spirit, he said, adding, "What happened in Mehkar does not reflect well on the city's reputation. I appeal all to maintain peace and live in peace."

'Take 2 steps back': Athawale's advise to Shinde as speculation over CM post grows

Union minister Ramdas Athawale on Tuesday suggested Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde to consider stepping aside and allow Devendra Fadnavis to assume the role of Maharashtra chief minister.

While speaking to reporters, the minister suggested that Shinde could serve as deputy chief minister or seek a position in the Union cabinet.

"The Maharashtra dispute should end soon. BJP's high command has decided that Devendra Fadnavis should be made the CM but Eknath Shinde is unhappy and his displeasure needs to be removed. BJP has so many seats that even BJP will not agree," Athawale said.

"I think that Eknath Shinde should take 2 steps back, just like Devendra Fadnavis took 4 steps back and worked under his leadership. Eknath Shinde should become Deputy CM or at least a central minister," he added.

Athawale further said that the Mahayuti alliance needs Shinde and his 57 MLAs and there should be compromise in the "Maharashtra dispute."

Eknath Shinde resigns, governor asks him to act as caretaker chief minister

Chief minister Eknath Shinde on Tuesday resigned from his post and submitted his resignation to Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan at Raj Bhavan. Shinde, who was accompanied by Deputy CMs Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, will continue as caretaker chief minister till the new CM takes oath.

The governor handed over the letter to Shinde to continue as the caretaker chief minister.

Shinde’s resignation was necessitated as the term of the 14th Maharashtra Assembly expired on Tuesday. The 15th Assembly has come into place after the state government issued a gazette notification last Sunday.

'CM Shinde has clearly said that whatever decision PM Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah take, it will be acceptable to him,' says Shiv Sena leader Deepak Kesarkar

Shiv Sena leader Deepak Kesarkar said, "CM Eknath Shinde has submitted his resignation to the Governor and the Governor has appointed him as the caretaker CM till the new government is formed. Mahayuti leaders will sit together and discuss and go to Delhi and then a decision will be taken.CM Shinde has clearly said that whatever decision PM Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah take, it will be acceptable to him."

Governor appoints Eknath Shindeas caretaker chief minister until the next government is sworn in

Maharashtra chief minister Eknath Shinde resigned from his post and the Governor appointed him as caretaker chief minister until the next government is sworn in.

Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde submits his resignation to governor CP Radhakrishnan at Raj Bhavan

Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde tenders his resignation as CM to governor CP Radhakrishnan, at Raj Bhavan in Mumbai

Deputy CMs Ajit Pawar and Devendra Fadnavis are also present.

Mahayuti alliance consisting BJP, Shiv Sena and NCP emerged victorious in Maharashtra assembly elections

Maharashtra CM and Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde arrives at Raj Bhavan in Mumbai

Maharashtra Depty CM and NCP chief Ajit Pawar arrives at Raj Bhavan in Mumbai

'Shiv Sena and NCP are slaves of BJP,' says Sanjay Raut

"Amit Shah and Narendra Modi will decide who will be the CM (of Maharashtra). Neither Eknath Shinde nor Ajit Pawar can decide about their respective parties. Decisions about both the parties are taken in Delhi. Amit Shah and Modiji decide what Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar have to do. These both parties (Shiv Sena and NCP) are slaves of BJP. They are sub-company of BJP. Whatever Modiji and (Amit) Shahji say they will have to abide by it," Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut said.

'Leaders of the three parties, our parliamentary board, will decide on this (CM) matter': BJP leader Rahul Narvekar

"Today the term of the assembly is ending. If he (CM Shinde) resigns today, he will be requested to work as a caretaker CM till a new government is formed. The leaders of the three parties, our parliamentary board, will decide on this (CM) matter. And soon the government will be formed in Maharashtra."

Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde pays floral tributes to the Bravehearts at Martyrs' Memorial on the premises of the Police Commissioner's Office, on the 16th anniversary of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack

Maharashtra elections: Amid delay over naming CM, Shinde asks supporters not to throng 'Varsha'

The Maharashtra government has reinstated IPS officer Rashmi Shukla as Director General of Police (DGP) after the conclusion of the assembly polls, an order issued by the state home department on Monday evening said. Sanjay Kumar Verma had taken over as the state's top police officer earlier after Shukla was removed from the DGP's post on the Election Commission of India's directive ahead of the elections.

Congress had demanded that she should be shunted out.

Verma, a senior Indian Police Service officer, was to hold the top post till the election process was over, while Shukla was sent on compulsory leave for the same duration.

With the completion of the electoral process and announcement of election results, the Model Code of Conduct ceased to be in force on Monday, the home department order said.

Maharashtra elections: Maharashtra govt reinstates Rashmi Shukla as DGP

The Maharashtra government has reinstated IPS officer Rashmi Shukla as the Director General of Police (DGP) and chief of the police force of Maharashtra, after the conclusion of the assembly polls, an order issued by the state home department said on Monday evening. Senior IPS officer Sanjay Kumar Verma had taken over as the DGP of Maharashtra, a day after DGP Rashmi Shukla was removed on an Election Commission of India directive ahead of the assembly polls.

Shukla was removed from the post after a demand by Maharashtra Congress unit chief Nana Patole.

Verma was to hold the top post till the elections process was over, while Shukla was sent on compulsory leave for the same duration, as per a previous government order.

However, with the completion of the electoral process and the announcement of election results on Sunday, the Election Commission of India officially declared the Model Code of Conduct concluded on Monday, the home department order said.

Maharashtra election results: Symbol confusion may have cost NCP (SP) 9 seats

In at least nine assembly constituencies, NCP (SP) candidates suffered because independent candidates with the trumpet symbol cut into their votes.

These NCP (SP) candidates lost by slender margins, ranging from 377 to 4,516 votes. At the same time, independent candidates with the trumpet symbol bagged between 2,860 and 7,430 votes in these constituencies. With a nearly 11.3% vote share, NCP (SP) won 10 seats out of the 85 it contested.

In 78 assembly constituencies that NCP (SP) contested, there were independent candidates with the trumpet symbol. In the Lok Sabha election too, the trumpet symbol was confused with NCP (SP)'s official ‘tutari vajavnara manus (man blowing tutari)' symbol. In the Lok Sabha seat of Satara, the trumpet, referred to as pipani in Marathi, led to the defeat of the candidate.

Maharashtra elections: Poll debacle could cost MNS its status and symbol, say analysts

The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) could lose its regional party recognition and ‘railway engine' symbol after its flop show in the assembly election, experts said, citing the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order 1968.

The Raj Thackeray-led party drew a blank in all the 125 seats it contested, including Mahim constituency from where his son, Amit Thackeray, made his electoral debut. As per the Election Commission of India (ECI) rules, state parties must meet at least one of the three criteria to retain recognition: win one seat with an 8% vote share, two with 6% votes, or three with 3% votes.

Explaining the process, former Maharashtra legislature secretary Anant Kalse said, "ECI can revoke a party's recognition if none of these conditions are met. These are the rules stipulated under 6 (A) of the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order 1968 for regional parties."

Maharashtra elections 2024: 85% candidates lose Rs 3.5 crore deposits, highest in 10 years; Congress aspirants top chart

Of the 4,136 candidates in the fray in Maharashtra, 3,515 (85%) lost their security deposits after they failed to secure the minimum vote share stipulated by EC. In all, Rs 3.5 crore was forfeited, the highest in 10 years.

In 2014, 4,119 candidates contested the polls and 3,422 (83.1%) lost their deposits, amounting to Rs 3.4 crore. In 2019, 80.5% of 3,237 candidates forfeited their deposits, totalling Rs 2.6 crore.

Under Representation of People Act, 1951, if a candidate fails to secure at least one-sixth of the total valid votes cast in their constituency, the security deposit is forfeited. Each assembly poll candidate must pay a Rs 10,000 deposit, while SC and ST contestants need to pay Rs 5,000.

Among the two major alliances, MVA suffered the biggest loss in security deposits, with its candidates losing their money in 22 seats. Congress candidates alone forfeited deposits in nine seats, followed by Shiv Sena (UBT) in eight and NCP (SP) in three. Peasants and Workers Party, an MVA constituent, lost deposits in two seats.

No need to blame EVMs for defeat: Ajit Pawar to uncle

NCP chief Ajit Pawar on Monday countered veteran politician and NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar over claims of EVM misuse in the just concluded assembly election, saying his uncle should accept the poll defeat with humility like Mahayuti did after the LS election. “There is no need to blame EVMs for the defeat (in the assembly election). Win or loss depends on voters. Mahayuti constituents succeeded in gaining the trust of the voters,” Ajit Pawar said in Karad.

BJP firm on Fadnavis as Maha CM despite Shinde’s resistance

Disregarding resistance from its ally Shiv Sena, BJP is pressing ahead with its effort to restore Devendra Fadnavis as Maharashtra CM.

Sources indicated that this decision has been communicated to Ajit Pawar’s NCP, which is comfortable with the idea of Fadnavis’s return to office he held between 2014 and 2019 and then, briefly, for a few days again in 2019. There are indications the decision will soon be conveyed to Shiv Sena, which has been pressing for the continuation of incumbent, Eknath Shinde.

BJP insiders expressed hope Shinde would come around because of the huge numbers at BJP’s disposal: it has won 132 seats and has the support of Ajit Pawar’s group of 41 as well as its “silent supporters” scattered among other Mahayuti constituents in this regard.

Aarti was performed at Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple, wishing to make Eknath Shinde the CM of Maharashtra.

'Maha' CM tussle: Shiv Sena pitches for Eknath Shinde with 'Bihar model' example; Will Fadnavis, Ajit Pawar agree?

Who will be the next chief minister of Maharashtra? It's advantage Devendra Fadnavis amid suspense over which Mahayuti leader gets the top job. The BJP, with 132 seats - only 12 less than the half-way mark in the 288-member assembly, is the strongest contender for the post and needs only one ally to form a government. But, the Shiv Sena, despite winning only 57 seats - which is less than half of BJP's tally, is not giving up easily. The leaders of Shiv Sena, according to reports, feel that it was their leader Eknath Shinde, who as the incumbent chief minister, paved the way for the historic win of the ruling alliance with his governance. They also cite data from opinion poll surveys to claim that Shinde is the most popular leader of the Mahayuti. Read more

Maharashtra assembly elections 2024: 'Eknath Shinde should be the CM of Maharashtra,' says Shiv Sena leader Raju Waghmare

"Eknath Shinde should be the CM of Maharashtra. Mahayuti decided that we would contest the elections on his face because of his popularity... 133 BJP candidates won, but the vote share belonged to Ajit Pawar and Shiv Sena also. The popularity of Eknath Shinde has contributed 30-40% to the votes... Just like in cricket, the captain is not changed, we should also not change our captain... This is our wish but whatever is decided by the Mahayuti leadership is acceptable to us," Waghmare.

Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis arrives at Delhi airport. He is likely to meet BJP's top leadership over the formation of the state government.

Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis arrives in Delhi amid suspense over who will be 'Maha' CM

He is likely to meet BJP's top leadership over the formation of the state government.

'The process of forming the government is underway': Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde after Mahayuti's victory

Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde on Monday said that their focus on development over the past 2.5 years has earned them the people's support and affection.
"The people have given a massive victory to Mahayuti. We have undertaken significant development in the last 2.5 years, with support from the Centre, and the people have showered us with their love. The process of forming the government is underway," Shinde said to news agency ANI.

Maharashtra Election Results 2024

Individual candidate Sharad Bhimaji Sonavane, who won from Junnar seat, walks with his supporters to the residence of Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, to extend his support to the Mahayuti.

Maharashtra assembly elections

"Today, the elected members of Shiv Sena in Maharashtra assembly gathered. A meeting was conducted, under the chairmanship of Uddhav Thackery, the chief of the party. Bhaskar Jadhav has been elected as the leader of the party in the Legislative Assembly, as well as Sunil Prabhu, has been elected as the chief whip of the party. Aaditya Thackeray has been elected as chief of the both the houses," said Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Arvind Sawant.

Maharashtra assembly elections 2024: After poll rout, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader says Aaditya Thackeray to helm party's comeback

After the Shiv Sena (UBT), part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, faced a humiliating defeat from the Mahayuti alliance in the Maharashtra assembly elections, the party's spokesperson Anand Dubey that the party will make a comeback under the leadership to Aaditya Thackeray after a meeting at 'Matoshree' on Monday.

"I am confident that we will make a comeback under the leadership of Aaditya Thackeray. His only aim is to provide employment to the youth of state and MSP for farmers" said Dubey. Read more

Maharashtra assembly elections 2024

" I am confident that we will make a comeback in the leadership of Aaditya Thackeray," said Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Anand Dubey after party meeting at 'Matoshree' today.

Maharashtra assembly elections 2024: 'There has been a rig in the elections,' says Nana Patole

"There has been a rig in the elections... All of our leaders were in the elections field. Our party workers were also there with all their power. Everyone was hopeful that the election results would be in the favour of Maha Vikas Aghadi. For eg, our candidate for Nanded Lok Sabha bye-election won but all our Vidhan Sabha candidates lost. How can there be so much of a difference?... The people on social media are also saying that their votes have not formed this government. This is our biggest concern. That is why I came to meet our National President Mallikarjun Kharge... We are also worried because we are getting phone calls from all over the state. People are saying that this is wrong and it is not good for a democracy," said Patole.

Eknath Shinde likely to resign as Maharashtra CM tomorrow: Shiv Sena

mumbai: Maharashtra chief minister, Eknath Shinde, is likely to resign tomorrow but will continue as the caretaker CM, party functionaries said on Monday.Shiv Sena insiders stated that CM Shinde is expected to submit his resignation to the governor on Tuesday and remain as a caretaker CM until the new chief minister and cabinet are sworn in.'No formula'Maharashtra deputy chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Monday clarified that no "formula" for the chief minister's post is currently under discussion, adding that the decision will be made collectively by the Mahayuti partners. Read more

Maharashtra assembly elections 2024: Public has voted for us because of good work we have done, says BJP MP Hema Malini

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Hema Malini on Monday expressed her happiness on Mahayuti's win in the Maharashtra elections and said that the public was aware of the fact that the BJP worked for the public.

Speaking to ANI, Malini said "We won in Maharashtra and we are very happy. The public has voted for us because of the good work we have done. The public is very well aware of the fact that BJP works for the public.. and what was bound to happen did happen."

Earlier today, Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC said that it was for the first time in the history of Maharashtra that there was no leader of opposition.

Speaking to ANI, the leader said "For the first time in the history of Maharashtra, we will not have a leader in the opposition. This is the result of the wrong deeds of Congress and opposition but also the false narrative they spread. Look at the adjectives they used...maal, bakri, kutta.. Look at the vision plan which is totally dyfunct."

Further, she said that the situation reflected on how the people of Maharashtra voted for Viksit Bharat and for the development of Bharat Maharashtra.

"The people of Maharashtra have voted for Viksit Bharat and for the development of Bharat and Maharashtra. They have voted for a vision plan that is to take everyone along. When we say 'anekta mein ekta' it means unity in diversity, and the voters for Maharashtra have understood well.. it is well deserved not to have a leader in the opposition rather than have a destructive group of people who only spread false narratives in public service," she added.

Maharashtra assembly elections 2024: Very difficult for the opponents to bear extent of the loss..., saysNCP MP Praful Patel

National Congress Party (NCP) MP Praful Patel on Monday lashed out on Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara after he said that EVM machines in Maharashtra were 'hacked'. Patel said that the opponents weren't able to absorb the extent of the loss.

"The victory in Maharashtra was unprecedented. It is very difficult for our opponents to absorb the extent of the loss and therefore this is case of sour grapes. What our opponents are saying now has no meaning... the people have comprehensively rejected them.. and now they are blaming the EVMs. We are very sure that the people of Maharashtra voted for us because of the strong Mahayuti and the leadership of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi.."Patel said while speaking to ANI.

Earlier on November 24, Parameshwara had said that his party leaders were surprised over the information they got about Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) being selectively "hacked."

Parameshwara, who is also the All India Congress Committee observer of Maharashtra elections, said that party leaders including former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel discussed the EVM issues and are going to appeal to the Election Commission of India (ECI).

Maharashtra assembly elections 2024: Raut demands re-election, alleges irregularities in EVMs during polls

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Monday demanded a re-election in Maharashtra using ballot papers, claiming there were irregularities with the electronic voting machines (EVMs). Talking to reporters, Raut alleged several complaints about EVMs malfunctioning and questioned the integrity of the recently held elections.
The BJP-led Mahayuti won 230 out of 288 seats in the assembly elections, while the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi managed 46 seats, with Shiv Sena (UBT) winning just 20 out of 95 seats it contested.

"We have received nearly 450 complaints regarding EVMs. Despite raising objections repeatedly, no action has been taken on these issues. How can we say these elections were conducted fairly? Hence, I demand that the results be set aside and elections be held again using ballot papers," Raut said.

Citing some instances, he said a candidate in Nashik reportedly received only four votes despite having 65 votes from his family, while in Dombivli, discrepancies were found in EVM tallies, and election officials refused to acknowledge the objections.

The Sena (UBT) leader also questioned the credibility of the landslide victories of some candidates, saying, "What revolutionary work have they done to receive more than 1.5 lakh votes? Even leaders who recently switched parties have become MLAs. This raises suspicions. For the first time, a senior leader like Sharad Pawar has expressed doubts about EVMs, which cannot be ignored."

Maharashtra assembly elections 2024: No 'formula' under discussion for CM's post, says Ajit Pawar

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Monday said no "formula" was being discussed for the chief minister's post and a decision on it will be taken together by the Mahayuti partners. Speaking to reporters here, NCP leader Pawar also said the Mahayuti got such a huge mandate and the MVA did not even have enough numbers to stake claim for the leader of opposition's post in the state assembly.

Pawar also acknowledged the contribution of the government's Ladki Bahin scheme, which provides financial assistance to women, in the Mahayuti's victory in the just-concluded state assembly polls.

The deputy CM paid tributes to Maharashtra's first chief minister Yashwantrao Chavan at his memorial 'Pritisangam' in Karad on his death anniversary.

In the state poll results declared on Saturday, the Mahayuti, comprising the BJP, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena and NCP, bagged an impressive 230 of the 288 assembly seats.

BJP leader and Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis is being seen as a strong contender to occupy the top post for the third time, as his party bagged 132 of the 149 seats it contested.

Notably, Maharashtra minister and Shiv Sena leader Deepak Kesarkar has said his party legislators feel Shinde should continue as CM.

Maharashtra assembly election results 2024: MNS at risk of losing recognition, symbol after drawing blank

The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) is at risk of losing its status as a recognised political party and its railway engine poll symbol after its dismal performance in the recently concluded state assembly election, where it failed to win even one seat. In the elections swept by the Mahayuti, none of the 125 candidates fielded by the Raj Thackeray-led party, including his son Amit Thackeray, could strike gold.

In an informal interaction with the media, former Maharashtra legislature secretary Anant Kalse explained the Election Commission of

India's criteria for a political party to retain its recognition and reserved election symbol.

"To maintain recognition, a party must either win at least one seat and secure 8 per cent of the total vote share, or win two seats with 6 per cent votes, or win three seats with 3 per cent votes. The election commission can revoke the party's recognition if none of these conditions are met," Kalse said.

The MNS managed to secure only 1.8 per cent of votes and failed to win any seats, falling far short of the required benchmarks.

He said, "The Election Commission is an independent body and may take a decision on the matter. It could send a notice to the MNS and cancel its recognition."

Maharashtra assembly election 2024: If I had done a rally..., Ajit Pawar jokes with nephew Rohit Pawar

The Mahayuti consisting of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Shiv Sena, and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) swept the 2024 general assembly elections winning 230 seats.
However, Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar) or NCP (SP) candidate Rohit Pawar managed to win the Karjat Jamkhed assembly constituency against BJP's Ram Shankar Shinde by a very thin margin.

In a funny banter, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister NCP chief Ajit Pawar asked his nephew Rohit Pawar to touch his feet because he was "saved" by a very thin margin.

"Darshan ghe dharshan...kakacha (come, come meet your uncle)," said Ajit Pawar as Rohit Pawar touched his feet.

"You were saved by a thing margin...think what would happen if I had taken a public meeting (rally) there...best of luck," Deputy CM Pawar told Rohit Pawar jokingly.

Rohit Pawar is the nephew of Ajit Pawar and related to NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar. He won the recently held assembly elections from Karjat Jamkhed seat in a close contest with the BJP.

Maharashtra assembly elections 2024: For the first time in Maharashtra's history, there is no leader in the Opposition, says Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC

Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC on Monday said that it was for the first time in the history of Maharashtra that there was no leader of opposition.

Speaking to ANI, the leader said "For the first time in the history of Maharashtra, we will not have a leader in the opposition. This is the result of the wrong deeds of Congress and opposition but also the false narrative they spread. Look at the adjectives they used...maal, bakri, kutta.. Look at the vision plan which is totally dyfunct."

Further, she said that the situation reflected on how the people of Maharashtra voted for Viksit Bharat and for the development of Bharat Maharashtra.

"The people of Maharashtra have voted for Viksit Bharat and for the development of Bharat and Maharashtra. They have voted for a vision plan that is to take everyone along. When we say 'anekta mein ekta' it means unity in diversity, and the voters for Maharashtra have understood well.. it is well deserved not to have a leader in the opposition rather than have a destructive group of people who only spread false narratives in public service," she added.

Earlier on Sunday, Maharashtra BJP Presidenty Chandrashekhar Bawankule lashed out at Congress and announced that there would be no Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the state legislature.

"Maharashtra will not have a leader of the opposition (LoP) this time. This is the result of the wrong deeds of Congress and the opposition. They spread fake narratives in Lok Sabha Elections and duped voters at that time. So when people came to know about this in assembly polls, voters kicked them out as they did in Haryana," BJP Maharashtra chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule said.

Maharashtra Assembly Elections: 'False and malicious', Maharashtra Congress denies reports of Nana Patole's resignation

The Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee has denied reports that the party's state unit chief, Nana Patole, resigned from his post over the party's poor performance in the recent assembly elections.

The MPCC stated that these reports are false and being spread maliciously. Read more

Maharashtra assembly elections 2024 Live: Shiv Sena MLAs feel Shinde should continue as CM, says Minister Deepak Kesarkar

Maharashtra minister and Shiv Sena leader Deepak Kesarkar has said his party legislators feel Eknath Shinde should continue as the chief minister of the state, where the ruling Mahayuti scored a landslide victory in the assembly polls.

Kesarkar met Shinde at the latter's residence in Mumbai on Sunday, a day after the Mahayuti coalition, of which Shiv Sena is a constituent, retained power by winning 230 of the 288 assembly seats in the state, leaving the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi with just 46 seats.

"Shiv Sena MLAs feel Shinde should continue in the post because under his leadership the Mahayuti worked very well and performed spectacularly in polls," Kesarkar told reporters.

He, however, added that Shinde and Deputy CMs Devendra Fadnavis (BJP) and Ajit Pawar (NCP) will take a unanimous decision on the CM issue.

"Whatever may be the decision, it will be in the interest of Maharashtra," said Kesarkar, who won another term from the Sawantwadi constituency.

Speculation regarding the chief minister's post started doing rounds after the BJP led by Fadnavis won the highest 132 out of 288 seats in the state elections.

The Shiv Sena led by Shinde bagged 57 seats.

Maharashtra Assembly Election Results: BJP won election by manipulating Targeted Polling Booths through EVM, Cong's Digvijaya Singh

Veteran Congress Leader and Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament (MP), Digvijaya Singh has raised concerned over the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s victory in recent Maharashtra assembly election and alleged that the latter won the election by manipulating Targeted Polling Booths through Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).
Congress leader Singh also claimed that the results of the Maharashtra elections unfolded exactly as the BJP wished, highlighting that they fielded 148 candidates and secured victory for 132 of them, with a success strike rate of 89 per cent.

"The results of the Maharashtra elections appeared whatever the BJP wanted. They fielded 148 candidates out of which 132 won, having a success strike rate of 89 per cent. If they (BJP) want, they can form a government even without SS (Shinde) and NCP (Ajit Pawar). BJP has won this election by manipulating Targeted Polling Booths through EVM," the Congress leader said in a post on X on Monday.

He further spoke about the BJP's performance in Jharkhand assembly polls asking wasn't Maharashtra more important than Jharkhand for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

"People will ask how did they lose Jharkhand? Just think, isn't Maharashtra more important than Jharkhand for Narendra Modi and Amit Shah," Singh asked in the post.

Maharashtra Election Results 2024: Ajit, Sharad Pawar pay tributes to Maharashtra's 1st CM Y B Chavan

NCP (SP) head Sharad Pawar and Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar on Monday separately visited the memorial of the state's first chief minister Y B Chavan here and paid tributes to him on his death anniversary. Sharad Pawar offered floral tributes at 'Pritisangam', the memorial of his mentor Yashwantrao Balwantrao Chavan.

Later, his nephew and NCP head Ajit Pawar also visited the memorial and paid homage to the late leader.

Sharad Pawar was accompanied by his grandnephew Rohit Pawar.

Last year, Ajit Pawar along with several other legislators joined the Eknath Shinde-BJP government in the state, leading to a split in the NCP founded by his uncle Sharad Pawar.

In the just-concluded polls to the 288-member Maharashtra assembly, the NCP led by Ajit Pawar performed well winning 41 seats, while the NCP (SP) headed by his uncle put up a dismal show by securing only 10 seats.