EVM: The driving force behind Mahayuti's resounding victory

For the Mahayuti, the EVM could well stand for ‘Enormous Voting for Mahayuti,’ a testament to its ability to win the confidence of the people.

- SAVIO RODRIGUES

The political landscape of Maharashtra has witnessed a seismic shift with the Mahayuti alliance, consisting of the BJP, the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar-led NCP, achieving a historic victory in the state elections. Once again, the Opposition's favourite scapegoat, the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM), has been dragged into controversy. However, the victory of the Mahayuti is far less about alleged manipulation and far more about strategic planning, unification of nationalist forces, consolidation of votes, and a clear focus on the future of Maharashtra.

For the Mahayuti, the EVM could well stand for "Enormous Voting for Mahayuti," a testament to its ability to win the confidence of the people. While the Opposition indulges in its repetitive rhetoric about the alleged unreliability of EVMs, it is essential to analyse how the Mahayuti triumphed through a combination of political acumen, strategic alliances, and a clear developmental roadmap.

No analysis of the Mahayuti's triumph in Maharashtra would be complete without acknowledging the impact of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's brand of politics. PM Modi's governance model, which combines development with nationalism, has consistently resonated with voters across India, and Maharashtra was no exception.

His emphasis on "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas" (together with all, development for all, trust of all, and efforts by all) served as an overarching narrative that complemented the Mahayuti's regional strategy.

Modi's ability to connect with the masses through his speeches, his unwavering focus on development, and his portrayal of India as a global leader instilled confidence among voters with his "Ek Hain Toh Safe Hain" clarion call to the people of Maharashtra to remain united and focused on socio-economic development.