Counting of votes for the high-stake Assembly elections in Maharashtra, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed an unprecedented 27 rallies, began October 19 amid tight security.
The election for the 288-member House, which saw a five-way fight between NCP, Congress, BJP, Shiv Sena and MNS of Raj Thackeray, is being seen as the first major popularity test of Modi, who assumed office around five months ago.
This may be the most eagerly-awaited poll result in the history of Maharashtra, where the two main alliances crumbled ahead of the election, adding a tinge of uncertainty in a state known till now for its largely bipolar polity.
All photos by Shashi Ashiwal
A healthy 63.13 per cent voter turnout was recorded in the state, which saw a multi—cornered fight after decades.
Over 35,000 election staff are on duty.
The Election Commission has deputed 135 general observers, 112 expenditure, five police and 18 awareness observers, the officials said.
A family watching results of Maharashtra Assembly election restults on TV in Mumbai.
Shiv Sena supporters celebrate after the victory of Shiv Sena leader Sada Sarvankar at Dadar in Mumbai.
Shiv Sena Leader Sada Sarvankar celebrates his victory in the Assembly elections polls with supporters.
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