As the Assembly elections approach, both Maharashtra and Jharkhand are witnessing an intense political climate, with major parties ramping up their campaigns to capture voter attention. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress are particularly active, deploying their high-profile leaders to rally support across the states.
On this pivotal day, various star campaigners are set to take the stage in both states. The BJP, keen on making a strong impression, is leaving no stone unturned. Among the notable figures addressing rallies today is Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who will be in Lohardaga, Jharkhand.
He is expected to appeal directly to the public for votes in favour of NDA candidate Neeru Shanti Bhagat. Singh will be joined by influential local leaders, including Jharkhand BJP President Babulal Marandi and former Deputy Chief Minister Sudesh Kumar Mahto.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is also on the campaign trail, showcasing his party’s dedication to winning in both states. His schedule includes three significant rallies in Jharkhand, where he will connect with voters in Koderma, Barkagaon, and Jamshedpur.
His first meeting will take place at Chandravati School Ground in Koderma at 10:30 am, followed by an event at Plus Two High School Ground in Barkagaon at noon, and concluding with a gathering at Aam Bagan Ground in Jamshedpur at 1:30 pm.
In contrast, the Congress party is not sitting idle. National President Mallikarjun Kharge is stepping into the fray with plans to address a large public meeting in the Kanke Assembly constituency in Jharkhand. His participation underscores Congress's strategy to regain ground in the state and mobilise support ahead of the elections.
Maharashtra’s political landscape is equally dynamic, with the All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen (AIMIM) making its presence felt. National President Asaduddin Owaisi and his brother Akbaruddin Owaisi are scheduled to hold public meetings in Dhule and Aurangabad, respectively. The AIMIM is contesting in 16 Assembly constituencies, and their campaign efforts are focused on securing as many seats as possible in this crucial election.
The campaigning in Maharashtra will see a fierce exchange as Uddhav Thackeray, the chief of the Shiv Sena (UBT), targets the current Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and his supporters. Thackeray is set to make his voice heard in Kolhapur, launching a direct challenge to Shinde’s administration and the faction he represents.
Later in the day, Devendra Fadnavis, another key BJP leader, will also campaign in Kolhapur, just hours after Thackeray’s appearance. This sequence of events highlights the competitive atmosphere of the elections, with leaders from both sides eager to sway public opinion.