Elections Underway in Maharashtra, Jharkhand

State elections in Maharashtra and Jharkhand took place on November 20, 2024, serving as a pivotal test for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). In Maharashtra, the ruling Mahayuti coalition is projected to maintain a majority with an expected 150-170 seats, while the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi is forecasted to secure 110-130 seats. In Jharkhand, the BJP is anticipated to gain 42-47 seats against the JMM-led alliance's predicted 25-30 seats. Political analysts stress that a loss for the BJP could significantly impact Modi's leadership and the party's standing ahead of upcoming elections in Delhi and Bihar. Voter turnout is being closely monitored, with results to be announced on November 23. The elections have seen Modi actively campaigning and appealing to youth and women voters, amidst concerns over potential polarization in the electorate.