The INDIA bloc has made a strong showing in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections 2024, leading in several key states, including Maharashtra, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh. Meanwhile, the BJP has maintained its stronghold in Gujarat, Odisha, and Madhya Pradesh. The trends have come as a surprise to many, with the INDIA alliance performing better than expected in states traditionally dominated by the BJP-led NDA. In Uttar Pradesh, the INDIA bloc is leading on 42 of the 80 Lok Sabha seats, while the BJP is ahead on 37 seats. The BJP had previously won 71 seats in 2014 and 76 seats in 2019.
BJP Leads in Odisha, Faces Challenges in Maharashtra
In Odisha, the BJP is leading on 19 of the 21 Lok Sabha seats, indicating a strong performance. However, the party’s performance in Maharashtra has been less impressive, with the INDIA bloc comprising Shiv Sena (UBT), Sharad Pawar’s NCP, and the Congress leading on 29 of the 48 Lok Sabha seats.
Congress Improves Performance from 2019
The Congress party has also seen an improvement in its performance compared to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, when it won 52 seats. As of now, the party is leading on around 90 seats.
NDA Relies on Allies for Boost
The BJP’s individual performance has not met expectations this time, with the party relying heavily on its allies in several states. In 2019, the NDA won 303 seats, with the BJP alone winning 224.
Exit Polls Prove Inaccurate
Most exit polls had predicted a thumping win for the BJP-led NDA, forecasting 370-401 seats in the Lok Sabha polls 2024. However, the NDA is currently hovering near 295 seats, while the INDIA alliance is leading on 230 seats.The counting of votes is still ongoing, and the final results are expected to be announced later today. The outcome of the elections will have significant implications for the country’s political landscape and the formation of the next government.