Eknath Shinde Predicts Mahayuti Victory Amid Opposition Protests

Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, expressed confidence on Sunday that the ruling coalition, known as Mahayuti, will secure victory in the upcoming local body elections. His remarks came shortly after the Opposition staged a protest against the Election Commission over alleged irregularities in the voters’ list.

Speaking to reporters following a ritual at the Vitthal temple in Pandharpur, Shinde emphasized the government’s commitment to development, citing its track record as a key reason voters will support Mahayuti. He highlighted a significant relief package of nearly Rs 32,000 crore that the government allocated to assist farmers impacted by recent heavy rains. This financial support was disbursed during the Diwali festival, which Shinde noted reflects the government’s responsiveness to the needs of the agricultural community.

The Deputy Chief Minister also announced that a decision regarding the waiver of farm loans would be made by June 30, 2026, following recommendations from a committee expected to report by early April. “People prioritize work, and our agenda is clear: development,” Shinde stated. “This is why we achieved a landslide victory in the state assembly elections, and I am confident they will support us in the local body polls as well.”

Opposition parties, including the Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition—which comprises the Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and NCP—held a protest march in Mumbai the previous day. They accused the Election Commission of failing to address significant issues in the voters’ list, including multiple entries and wrongful deletions. The Opposition has argued that these discrepancies could unfairly benefit the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

In response to these allegations, Shinde reiterated the need for fair electoral processes and noted that the Supreme Court has mandated that local body elections in Maharashtra be conducted by January 31, 2026. The court’s directive aims to ensure that electoral integrity is upheld and that the voters’ list is accurate before the elections proceed.

In a related event, Shinde unveiled a towering statue of Lord Vitthal, measuring 51 feet, at the Punyashloka Ahilyadevi Holkar Upvan Ghat in Thane. Addressing a large crowd of devotees, Shinde shared his personal connection to the warkari tradition, stating, “I come from a warkari and farmer family. As a child, I used to go to Pandharpur with my grandparents and parents. Today, I have come here not as a Deputy Chief Minister, but as a devotee of Vitthal.”

Shinde’s remarks and actions reflect not only his political strategies leading up to the local body elections but also his deep-rooted cultural ties to the region, resonating with many constituents who share similar backgrounds and values.