Mumbai: Devendra Fadnavis’s resurgence in the Maharashtra assembly elections of 2024 is a fascinating political narrative, marked by strategic acumen, grassroots mobilization, and a keen understanding of the electorate’s pulse. His war-cry of ‘Mi Punha Yein’ (I shall be back) turned into a joke after the Shiv Sena’s Uddhav Thackeray backstabbed him in 2019. Later he was ridiculed by likes of Supriya Sule who said ‘Akela Devendra Kya Karega’ while underestimating him when he became the lea deader of opposition in 2019. From that point to the triumphant return today underscores his resilience and political savvy.
Also, even after he managed to form the Mahayuti government in 2022, the alliance put up a very poor show in the Lok Sabha elections earlier this year. Fadnavis took the whole responsibility on his shoulders and said we shall go to people and win their faith. He proved his words in a span of just five months and underlined his mantle once again.
In the 2019 Maharashtra assembly elections, Fadnavis faced a significant political blow when the Shiv Sena, led by Uddhav Thackeray, broke away from the pre-poll alliance with the BJP. This led to the formation of MVA government, comprising the Shiv Sena, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), and the Congress, sidelining Fadnavis and the BJP. Despite this setback, Fadnavis remained a prominent figure in Maharashtra politics, serving as the Deputy Chief Minister in the subsequent BJP-led government formed after the split within the Shiv Sena.
Fadnavis's comeback in the 2024 elections can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, his ability to maintain a strong connection with the grassroots and his constituency in Nagpur played a crucial role. His consistent engagement with the electorate, addressing local issues, and ensuring development projects kept him in good stead with the voters.
Secondly, Fadnavis's strategic alliances were pivotal. The BJP's coalition with the Shiv Sena and the NCP under the Mahayuti alliance proved to be a masterstroke. This alliance not only consolidated the pro-incumbency vote but also expanded the BJP's reach across different voter bases. The alliance could do this because Fadnavis instilled the concept of collective leadership within the party as well as the government. This helped the Mahayuti alliance to come forth as a united force.
The increased voter turnout in the 2024 elections was another significant factor. Fadnavis attributed this to the pro-incumbency sentiment and the impact of welfare schemes like the Ladki Bahin scheme, which aimed at empowering women and garnered substantial support from female voters. The higher voter turnout was seen as a positive indicator of public support for the BJP-led alliance.
Fadnavis's leadership style also contributed to his resurgence. Known for his articulate and pragmatic approach, he effectively communicated the achievements of the BJP-led government and countered the opposition's narrative. His ability to navigate the complex political landscape of Maharashtra, marked by factionalism and shifting alliances, showcased his political dexterity.
The election results reflected Fadnavis's successful strategy. The Mahayuti alliance secured a decisive victory, winning a significant number of seats and surpassing the majority mark in the 288-member Maharashtra assembly. This victory not only reinstated Fadnavis as a key political player but also positioned him as a potential candidate for the Chief Minister's post.
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