The UBT’s cry of ‘Maaza Baap Chorla’ (my father has been stolen) dominates the state of Maharashtra, as BJP’s lament of ‘betrayed by Uddhav Thackeray in 2019’ narrative has failed to connect with voters. Thus, overpowering the BJP’s betrayal lament.
In the electoral context, it refers to the use of Balasaheb Thackeray’s legacy by BJP and his ally shiv sena to enhance its poll fortunes.
Meanwhile, the BJP has lost seats in the western state due to various factors, ranging from delays in announcing candidates to the inability to convince the Dalit community, especially in Vidarbha, that the constitution is not in danger.
Additionally, the consolidation of Muslim votes behind the INDIA group has further complicated BJP’s chances in the state.
According to observers, Fadnavis’s decision to join Shiv Sena’s party and align with Eknath Shinde and colleagues, many of whom have been accused of corruption by BJP’s Kirit Somaiya, and Fadnavis’s perceived alignment with Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction have turned the electoral game in favor of the opposition.
Following the loss of the party name and symbol, the acquittal of MP Sanjay Raut by the high court, and the persistent involvement of the ED further complicated the political scenario.
Moreover, the Maratha agitation and Fadnavis’s inability to deal with it, exposed his ‘helplessness and disinterest in state affairs’ alleged insider.
The Mahayuti was the final nail in the coffin, as the meeting failed to address farmer concerns and discontent.
This dissatisfaction festered so much, during nashik rally, one farmer demanded PM Modi to speak on onion crisis.
The relocation of industries to Gujarat at the state’s expense, coupled with the alignment with NCP’s Ajit Pawar, has significantly intensified people’s anger, particularly among senior politicians who were denied prominent positions and cabinet posts.
