Lok Sabha Election 2024 Results: Modi 3.0 or I.N.D.I.A Shining? Counting Today

The majority mark for the assembly elections is 272. Today, votes will be counted for the assembly elections in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. The BJP aims to make significant gains in Bengal, Odisha, and the southern states to compensate for any potential loss in the north, where it holds a dominant position. Other crucial battleground states include Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Telangana.

Three exit polls have forecasted a 400-plus score for the BJP-led NDA, with variations in their predictions regarding the margin of victory. The Opposition has rejected these conclusions. However, the promises fulfilled by the ruling coalition, such as the abrogation of Article 370 and the construction of the Ayodhya Ram temple, have bolstered their stance. The Opposition’s offensive against the ruling coalition marks a significant shift from the lack of cohesiveness witnessed in 2019.

Several changes have been observed in the lineup of the two sides, with Maharashtra being at the center of the shake-up. The election is taking place amid allegations of the Central investigative agencies targeting opposition leaders. This year’s election stands out from the last decade due to the absence of a wave or public anger. However, there are indications of discontent over local issues like unemployment and inflation in some parts of the country.

The usage of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) has been a point of contention for the Opposition, who have questioned the security at EVM storage units. Allegations have been made regarding the temporary shutdown of CCTV cameras at an EVM strong room in Maharashtra and a mismatch of numbers in EVM units in Chhattisgarh, raised by the Congress.