Maharashtra Election 2024: Seat-Sharing Deal in Mahayuti Alliance Likely to Be Announced Today

In the lead-up to the Maharashtra Assembly elections, a seat-sharing formula has been agreed upon within the ruling "Mahayuti" alliance, comprising the BJP, Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena faction, and Ajit Pawar's NCP. According to reports, the BJP will contest 150 seats, Shinde's Shiv Sena will field candidates in 80 constituencies, while Ajit Pawar's NCP faction will contest 58 seats. This formula has been established to ensure a coordinated approach between the alliance partners as they prepare to face the opposition. The Maharashtra Assembly consists of 288 seats, and the Mahayuti alliance is strategizing to maximize its chances by distributing the seats based on the strengths and regional influence of each constituent party. The BJP, being the dominant partner, has secured the largest share of seats. The Shiv Sena faction led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar’s NCP group have also been allotted significant portions, reflecting their roles in the current state government. This agreement comes as the alliance aims to counter the opposition bloc, particularly the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress, and the Sharad Pawar-led NCP. The seat-sharing pact is expected to strengthen the Mahayuti’s electoral strategy as they head into a high-stakes political battle in Maharashtra.