Maharashtra is considered a very important state in India from an economic, cultural, and political perspective. With nearly 9% of the country’s population, Maharashtra contributes a significant 13% to India’s GDP. Mumbai, the state’s capital, is also regarded as the financial capital of the country. It houses the Bombay Stock Exchange, numerous banks, financial institutions, and several industries, making Maharashtra the economic backbone of the nation. Given this, the political developments in Maharashtra have a considerable impact on national politics.
Maharashtra has a deep-rooted political and social history. During India’s independence struggle, many leaders and social activists from Maharashtra played a significant role. Leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, Mahatma Phule, and Savitribai Phule led social reform and political movements. Consequently, citizens in Maharashtra are socially and politically conscious, and elections in the state are known for strategic planning and consideration.
Presently, various parties and leaders participate actively in Maharashtra’s politics. Major parties include the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Congress, Shiv Sena, and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). Earlier, the Shiv Sena and BJP formed a government together through the “Mahayuti” alliance. However, since 2014, BJP has contested separately, standing against Shiv Sena, although Shiv Sena remained an ally. Today, Shiv Sena has split into two factions—one led by Uddhav Thackeray and the other by Eknath Shinde. Similarly, the NCP is also divided, with factions led by Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar, creating further confusion in the state’s electoral politics.
In the recent elections, despite receiving 26% of the votes, BJP saw a reduction in the number of seats. This paradox is crucial for the party’s future strategies. Currently, BJP is focusing on extensive campaigning and public outreach across Maharashtra. On the other hand, Congress, Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena faction, and Sharad Pawar’s NCP faction have formed the “Maha Vikas Aghadi” (MVA), aiming to counter BJP’s growing influence.
BJP has emphasized caste, religious, and social polarization in its campaigning, invoking themes of nationalism and religion. Many experts view this as BJP’s attempt to divide the opposition along religious and caste lines. MVA, in contrast, is preparing to counter these tactics with more ideological campaigning, raising issues like caste-based reservation, secularism, and constitutionalism. However, to win voters’ trust, it is essential for the opposition to go beyond ideology and focus on effective campaign management and public engagement.
In several state elections across India, the concept of “Aaya Ram, Gaya Ram”—leaders frequently switching parties—has created political instability. Maharashtra is witnessing similar trends. If NCP leaders feel ignored, they may lean towards Ajit Pawar; if Shiv Sena leaders lack support, they might join Eknath Shinde’s faction; and if BJP rejects any claims, Congress may welcome those leaders. This trend is not unique to Maharashtra but is observed in other states as well. The tendency to abandon ideology, principles, and loyalty for power is growing in Maharashtra’s politics. Many leaders are ready to jump ship, often disregarding principles and ethical values for the sake of power.
The recent elections in Maharashtra have become even more chaotic due to the divisions within major parties like Shiv Sena and NCP, leading to confusion among voters. This raises questions about the integrity and principles of leaders.
Meanwhile, some prominent leaders in Maharashtra are attempting to bring their children into politics as their successors. This is concerning as it can undermine democratic values. While leaders’ children may inherit their legacy, power should be earned based on merit, not merely through inheritance. This trend of political dynasties limits new ideas and reinforces traditional political families’ dominance.
Maharashtrian voters have consistently demonstrated awareness and consciousness. For example, voters rejected the government after the Emergency, showcasing their political maturity. Maharashtra’s voters have repeatedly voted against corruption, party-based politics, and party-switching. Yet, some leaders continue to attempt to manipulate the electorate.
In conclusion, ethics, ideology, and idealism are needed in Maharashtra’s politics. Voters must question leaders’ frequent shifts in loyalty. The constant game of power and shifting allegiances threaten the core principles of democracy. Therefore, it is crucial for voters to make informed and thoughtful decisions when casting their ballots.
Vikas Parsharam Meshram is a political commentator
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