Maharashtra and Jharkhand Elections 2024: Key Dates Announced and Highlights
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has officially announced the dates for the upcoming legislative assembly elections in Maharashtra and Jharkhand. These elections are crucial as they set the stage for significant political realignments ahead of the 2024 general elections. Here’s a detailed look at the election schedule, key parties involved, and other relevant updates.
Election Dates and Phases
Maharashtra: The state will hold its assembly elections on November 20, 2024, in a single phase. Maharashtra’s assembly comprises 288 seats, with 29 reserved for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and 25 for Scheduled Tribes (STs). The term of the current assembly ends on November 26, 2024.
Jharkhand: Jharkhand will see a two-phase election. The first phase will be held on November 13, 2024, and the second phase on November 20, 2024. The state has 81 seats, with 9 reserved for SCs and 28 for STs. The term of the Jharkhand assembly ends on January 5, 2025.
Major Alliances and Political Contests
Maharashtra: The contest will be primarily between the ruling Mahayuti Alliance (comprising BJP, Shiv Sena [Eknath Shinde faction], and NCP [Ajit Pawar faction]) and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), a coalition of Shiv Sena (UBT), NCP (Sharad Pawar faction), and Congress. Maharashtra’s political scenario has been dynamic, with recent defections and alliances significantly reshaping the political landscape.
Jharkhand: The ruling Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)-Congress alliance, led by Chief Minister Hemant Soren, will face off against the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), consisting of BJP, JD(U), and All Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU). The outcome will be critical for both alliances as they prepare for the 2024 national elections.
Electoral Preparedness and Voter Data
As per the latest data, Maharashtra has 9.64 million electors, while Jharkhand has 2.61 million. The ECI has made special provisions to ensure inclusive elections, with facilities for PwD voters, senior citizens, and visually impaired voters, including Braille Voter Information Slips and the Saksham App for wheelchair requests.
Focus on Accessibility and Eco-friendly Elections
The ECI is committed to conducting accessible and eco-friendly elections. All polling stations are required to have ramps, separate entry-exit points, and designated parking for differently-abled voters. Furthermore, eco-friendly materials are being encouraged for campaigns, and the use of plastic is discouraged.
Election Results
The results for both Maharashtra and Jharkhand will be declared on November 23, 2024. The elections are expected to shape the political discourse ahead of the 2024 general elections, influencing strategies and alliances at both state and national levels.
