Maharashtra Assembly Election 2024: Amit Shah Declares BJP Will Win Big, Eyes Solo Government By 2029

In a speech aimed at energising party workers, Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed strong confidence in the BJP's future in Maharashtra. Addressing BJP members in Mumbai on Tuesday, Shah stated that the Mahayuti alliance, currently in power, would win again in the upcoming state elections. He also revealed the BJP's goal to contest future elections independently, predicting that the party would form the government on its own by 2029.

Shah's speech focused on motivating BJP workers, particularly after the party's performance in the recent Lok Sabha elections had left some feeling disheartened. He encouraged them to put the defeat behind them and focus on the upcoming challenges. Shah reminded them that the Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is now part of the alliance and urged party workers to support all alliance candidates wholeheartedly. Although the event was not open to the media, BJP leaders who attended shared these details with Hindustan Times.

Photo Credit: PTI

The Home Minister outlined an 11-point action plan for the party workers to secure success in the upcoming elections. His strategy included boosting the BJP's presence in constituencies where the party already holds influence. In seats considered strongholds (rated as 'A'), Shah urged workers to aim for a 10 per cent increase in voter turnout. For areas with lower ratings (B and C), the goal was to raise voting by 20 per cent. For constituencies where victory seems unlikely, particularly those with large Muslim populations, Shah advised ensuring low voter turnout to reduce potential opposition, citing a similar trend observed during the Lok Sabha elections.

Shah also stressed the importance of getting voters to the polls early, recommending that BJP leaders organise activities such as providing breakfast to encourage early voting. He further encouraged the recruitment of disaffected voters from other parties to strengthen the BJP's ranks. Additionally, Shah emphasised the need for party unity, cautioning that internal divisions could harm the party's chances.

A BJP leader who attended the event praised Shah's speech, describing it as one of his most inspiring addresses. According to this leader, Shah reminded the audience of the BJP's recent achievements, including the abrogation of Article 370 and the Citizenship Amendment Act. He expressed confidence that the party would continue its success by forming the state government once again.

Later in the day, Shah held a private meeting with core BJP leaders from Mumbai, instructing them to coordinate effectively with their alliance partners, particularly the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena. He also asked leaders to reduce internal differences within the BJP. Special attention was to be given to Muslim-majority areas, where Shah advised strategic efforts to counter opposition by maximising voting in Hindu-dominated areas.

In a separate meeting at the Sahyadri guest house, Shah met with Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and his deputies, Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar. The discussion reportedly focused on resolving seat-sharing arrangements within the alliance as they prepare for the next election cycle.