New Delhi, November 23: The counting of votes for the 2024 Assembly Elections in Jharkhand and Maharashtra, along with bypoll results from 15 states, kicked off at 8 AM on Saturday. The election results will determine the future leadership of 288 seats in Maharashtra and 81 seats in Jharkhand, with early trends expected within the first few hours.

In Maharashtra, the Legislative Assembly voting took place on Wednesday, recording a voter turnout of over 66%, surpassing the 61% turnout in the 2019 elections. The Mahayuti alliance—comprising the BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP—is in a fierce competition with the MVA coalition, which includes Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and NCP (SP). Both alliances are interpreting the higher turnout as an indication of growing support for their campaigns.

State Chief Electoral Officer S. Chockalingam praised the efforts to boost voter participation, particularly in Mumbai. He noted, “The Election Commission of India dedicated considerable effort and time to Maharashtra this election. Each strategy was carefully planned and executed. This resulted in a substantial increase in the voter list since the Parliamentary election. Special attention was given to enhance voting ease in regions like Mumbai, which faced challenges in past elections. This time, the arrangements were widely appreciated.” He also expressed gratitude to nearly 6 lakh officials who worked to ensure a smooth voting process.

In Jharkhand, the first round of voting occurred on November 13, covering 43 of the state's 81 assembly seats. The main battle is between the JMM-led coalition—consisting of Congress, RJD, and CPI(ML)—and the BJP-led NDA, which includes AJSU, JD(U), and LJP. Exit polls suggest the NDA might win between 42 and 47 seats, while the JMM alliance is expected to secure around 25 to 30 seats.

State Chief Electoral Officer K. Ravi Kumar shared updates before the counting, stating, “A counting center has been established in each of the 24 districts. All arrangements are in place. The process has begun... Postal ballot counting started at 8 AM, and EVM counting will commence at 8:30 AM. Results from the first round should be available by 9:30 AM.”

The voter turnout in Jharkhand was reported to be over 68.45%, exceeding the 65% turnout in 2019. In the last election, the JMM captured 30 seats, the BJP won 25, and Congress secured 16 seats. Today's results will decide the outcomes for all 81 constituencies in Jharkhand, alongside the Maharashtra and bypoll results.

Bypolls were also conducted in 48 assembly seats and two Lok Sabha constituencies across 15 states. Key contests include races in Uttar Pradesh and Wayanad, Kerala, where Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra made her electoral debut.

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