Modi’s BJP-led alliance set for victory in Maharashtra faces defeat in Jharkhand.

New Delhi- Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its allies are poised to secure victory in Maharashtra, the country’s richest state, according to preliminary results reported by local media. The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance is leading in 221 out of 288 assembly seats, cementing its dominance in the state that houses India’s financial capital, Mumbai.

Eknath Shinde, the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, celebrated the victory on social media platform X, calling it an “undisputed and resounding success” for the alliance. The opposition Congress party and its allies are trailing, leading in just 55 seats.

This win is a significant boost for Modi’s Hindu-nationalist party after losing its parliamentary majority in general elections earlier this year. Modi had to rely on a coalition of allies to form the government.

The BJP also recently won state elections in Haryana, further consolidating its political position. State victories are crucial for increasing representation in India’s upper house of parliament, which plays a critical role in legislative decision-making.

However, in the eastern state of Jharkhand, the BJP and its allies appear to be falling short. Early reports suggest that the ruling Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), in alliance with the Congress-led opposition, is on track to retain power, leading in the assembly elections.

Both Maharashtra and Jharkhand have seen political parties roll out measures aimed at farmers and women, considered pivotal voting blocs.