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The 2024 Maharashtra elections are set against a backdrop of ambitious freebie schemes, the influence of crorepati politicians, criminal cases among MLAs, agricultural challenges, and complex caste dynamics. These factors will significantly influence the political landscape and the outcomes of the elections.
Revdi Gamble and Freebies
The run-up to the polls has seen an unprecedented array of sops, with the Mahayuti government hoping that its Rs 1,500 monthly stipend to underprivileged women — the Mukhya Mantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana — will be a game-changer. This scheme, costing Rs 46,000 crore annually, puts significant strain on the state's finances.
Crorepati Politicians
93% of sitting MLAs are crorepatis. Maharashtra’s top politicians, many of whom are farmers and social workers, are in the spotlight. Prominent crorepati farmers include:
- Chief Minister Eknath Shinde
- Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis
- Ajit Pawar
- Leader of Opposition Vijay Wadettiwar
- State BJP President Chandrashekhar Bawankule
- Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) President Nana Patole
The financial status of these politicians is notable, with many benefiting from agricultural income tax relief.
Former minister Aditya Thackeray identifies himself as a social worker.
Criminal Cases Among MLAs
According to the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), the outgoing Maharashtra Assembly has a significant number of MLAs with criminal records:
- 60% (164) MLAs have declared criminal cases against themselves.
- 39% (106) MLAs have declared serious criminal cases.
Agricultural and Economic Challenges
The crash in soybean prices and the export ban on onions had previously cost the Mahayuti alliance in regions like Vidarbha, Marathwada, and Nashik during the Lok Sabha 2024 polls. The Centre has since lifted the export ban and cleared soybean procurement at the Minimum Support Price (MSP).
Caste Dynamics
The caste cauldron in Maharashtra is also a significant factor. Key communities shaping the political discourse include:
- Marathas (about 16%)
- Dhangars (shepherd community, 9%)
- Lingayats
Scheduled Castes (SCs), which make up 12% of the population, are diverse and include:
- Mahar or Navayana Buddhists (60%)
- Matangs (19%)
- Chambhars (11%)
The Mahayuti government has raised the OBC creamy layer income bar from ₹8 lakh to ₹15 lakh per annum, expanding the reservation criteria to include more people.