The BJP’s comeback in Maharashtra highlights its resilience after a significant setback in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. The party secured only 13 seats, a sharp decline from the 28 seats won in 2014. This loss marked the first time since 2014 that the BJP struggled to form a majority in Maharashtra, which is a crucial state in Indian politics with 48 Lok Sabha seats.
Strategic Course Correction: Welfare and Grassroots Engagement
The BJP’s comeback made a strong recovery in Maharashtra through strategic course corrections. A focus on welfare schemes targeting women, tribals, and marginalized groups was key to regaining voter trust. The party revamped its candidate selection process and strengthened its local-level outreach.
The “Ladki Behen” scheme, which promised monthly cash transfers of ₹1,500 to women, played a major role. The BJP also pledged to increase this amount to ₹2,100 if re-elected. This initiative helped consolidate support among women voters.
Consolidating OBC and Agricultural Support
The BJP also focused on strengthening its ties with the Other Backward Classes (OBCs). By reassuring them that their reservation rights would be protected, the BJP successfully countered the Congress narrative. This move helped win significant OBC support.
Relief measures for farmers played a key role in BJP’s recovery. Farmers in north Maharashtra (onion growers) and Vidarbha (cotton and soybean farmers) were promised assistance, winning back support from those disillusioned after the 2019 defeat.
Key Moves Strengthening BJP’s Position
The BJP kept the Chief Minister position open, especially in Vidarbha, where Devendra Fadnavis remained popular. The party also resolved internal dissent by addressing concerns from rebel leaders. Meanwhile, the opposition MVA failed to do the same.
Mahayuthi Alliance Prevails, MVA Struggles
In the final count, the ruling Mahayuthi alliance (comprising Shinde’s Sena, Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction, and BJP) secured 236 seats out of 288 in Maharashtra’s assembly. In contrast, the opposition MVA (Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena, Sharad Pawar’s NCP, and Congress) only managed to win 48 seats.