Maharashtra Elections 2024: Authorities on Wednesday reported that the total value of seized items, including cash, alcohol, and other contraband, during the Maharashtra assembly elections amounted to Rs 707 crore. Between October 15 and November 20, a total of 10,139 complaints related to poll code violations were filed via the C-Vigil app. Of these, 10,134 complaints have already been addressed, according to the office of the state Chief Electoral Officer (CEO). The C-Vigil app allows citizens to report violations of the Model Code of Conduct, and once a complaint is submitted, election authorities investigate and take the necessary actions.
Since October 15, state and central enforcement agencies have confiscated assets worth Rs 706.98 crore, including illegal cash, alcohol, narcotics, and precious metals, the CEO’s office confirmed.
Voting for all 288 assembly constituencies in Maharashtra took place on Wednesday, from 7 AM to 6 PM. The results are to be announced on Saturday.
Maharashtra Exit Poll Predictions
Meanwhile, the Matriz exit poll predicted a slightly higher range for Mahayuti, estimating 150 to 170 seats, while MVA is projected to secure 110 to 130 seats, with others gaining 8-10 seats. The Chanakya Strategies poll offered a more moderate projection, forecasting 152-150 seats for Mahayuti, 130-138 seats for MVA, and 6-8 seats for others.
In contrast, the People’s Pulse exit poll predicted a decisive victory for Mahayuti, with a projected 175-195 seats. It forecasted that MVA will secure 85-112 seats, while others could win 7-12 seats. With a majority mark of 145 seats in the 288-member Maharashtra Assembly, the Republic TV-PMARQ projection indicated that MVA could potentially cross this threshold as well.
As of 9 pm on Wednesday, voter turnout in Maharashtra stood at over 59%. The election has been highly competitive between Mahayuti and MVA, marking the first assembly polls since the splits in Shiv Sena and NCP.
In comparison, the 2019 Maharashtra assembly elections saw the BJP winning 105 seats, Shiv Sena securing 56, and Congress claiming 44 seats. In 2014, the BJP had a stronger showing with 122 seats, while Shiv Sena won 63, and Congress obtained 42 seats.
(With Agency Inputs)