The long-awaited announcement for the Maharashtra Assembly elections has finally been made. On Tuesday, the Election Commission of India held a press conference, confirming that the state will go to polls on November 20, 2024. The results will be declared just three days later, on November 23. With the official announcement, all political parties in the state have kicked into high gear, preparing for the crucial election battle.
The Maratha community’s votes played a significant role in the outcome of the last Lok Sabha elections, where many candidates faced setbacks due to the community’s influence. In an attempt to avoid similar electoral pitfalls, political leaders and legislators from all major parties are making efforts to connect with Maratha leaders, particularly Manoj Jarange Patil, a key figure representing the community.
Rajesh Tope, MLA from the Ghansawangi constituency and a member of the Sharad Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), recently met with Manoj Jarange Patil at midnight. The meeting took place at Antarauli Sarati at around 2:45 AM. While details of their discussion remain undisclosed, the timing and urgency of the meeting highlight the significance of securing Maratha support ahead of the elections. The ‘Jarange Pattern’ had a strong impact during the Lok Sabha elections, and political leaders are eager to prevent any electoral damage in the upcoming Assembly polls.
Rajesh Tope is not the only leader seeking Jarange Patil’s backing. Earlier, Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil also met Jarange late at night. This was Vikhe Patil’s second meeting with Jarange Patil in just eight days, with their most recent discussion taking place at 1:45 AM in Antarauli Sarati. The timing of these meetings reflects the growing importance of Manoj Jarange Patil’s influence on the upcoming elections. Leaders across party lines are vying for his support, especially in the sensitive electoral climate where the Maratha vote could be decisive.
As the election date approaches, it remains to be seen how these behind-the-scenes meetings will impact the final candidates and party strategies for the Maharashtra Assembly elections.